Finding Strength: Coping with Family Drinking Worries
Episode Overview
Recognise and process your own emotions before addressing a loved one's drinking habits. Giving space can be more effective than trying to force change in family members. Understanding the cycle of change can help identify where someone is in their recovery journey. Communicate concerns without judgement, focusing on timing and approach. Supportive relationships are crucial in navigating sobriety and family dynamics.
"The best strategy that family members employed was to give us both distance and allow us to find the rock bottom we needed."
How do people find strength in their journey to sobriety? In this episode, Danni Carr welcomes back Ben Schiller, a psychologist and popular guest, to tackle the heart-wrenching issue of worrying about family members who drink excessively. As Christmas approaches, emotions run high, and the temptation to drink can be overwhelming. Ben shares his insights on managing these feelings, emphasising the importance of recognising and processing one's emotions before addressing a loved one's drinking habits.
He suggests that stepping back and giving family members space can be more effective than trying to force change. The conversation also touches on the cycle of change, a psychological theory that helps identify where someone is in their journey towards sobriety. From recognising a problem to planning and taking action, understanding these stages can help families support their loved ones without overstepping boundaries.
Ben's advice is both practical and compassionate, offering listeners a roadmap for navigating the tricky terrain of family dynamics during the festive season. As the episode unfolds, Ben and Danni explore the emotional rollercoaster that comes with watching a loved one follow in your footsteps of excessive drinking. They discuss strategies for communicating concerns without judgement and highlight the significance of timing in these conversations.
With humour and honesty, they remind us that while the journey to sobriety is deeply personal, having supportive relationships can make all the difference. So, how do you approach a loved one about their drinking? Perhaps it's time to listen in and find out.