Tom Conrad: Addiction Recovery Podcaster
Tom Conrad: Addiction Recovery Podcaster
557: 5 ways parents enable addiction
557: 5 ways parents enable addiction
557: 5 ways parents enable addiction
Friday 1st August 2025
Explore five ways parents unknowingly enable addiction and learn how to foster independence in loved ones with Tom Conrad's Real Recovery Talk.
12 minutes
Informative
Compassionate
Supportive
Hopeful
Encouraging
About this podcast
Author:
Tom Conrad: Addiction Recovery Podcaster
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery Reimagined
Creative Recovery Journeys
Innovative Treatments & Recovery Paths
Family Recovery from Addiction
Recovery from Trauma
Links:
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Episodes:
557 (View all)
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Get the buttons here!Breaking Free: Understanding Parental Enabling in Addiction
Episode Overview
- Enabling behaviour can hinder recovery.
- Setting boundaries is crucial for growth.
- STOP acronym: Set boundaries, Talk clearly, Own your role, Provide help.
- Parents should avoid rescuing financially.
- Seek support from professionals and peers.
What reason does he have to stop drinking and drugging?
Tom Conrad's 'Real Recovery Talk' takes a deep dive into the often misunderstood concept of enabling addiction, particularly from a parent's perspective. With his unique blend of personal experience and professional insight, Tom outlines five common ways parents inadvertently support their child's addictive behaviour. The episode kicks off with a heartfelt story of a single mum, whose love for her only son led her to make decisions that inadvertently fueled his addiction.
From paying bills to bailing him out of jail, her actions—though well-intentioned—created an environment where her son could continue down his destructive path. Tom goes on to break down the concept of enabling into five actionable points. He talks about lying to cover up addiction, providing financial support, making excuses for their behaviour, cleaning up their messes, and fearing the consequences of setting boundaries.
With each point, Tom stresses the importance of parents recognising their role and stepping back to allow their child to face the natural consequences of their actions. Tom introduces the STOP acronym as a tool for parents: Setting boundaries, Talking with clarity, Owning your role, and Providing help rather than rescuing. He emphasises that while setting boundaries can be challenging, it's crucial for both the parent and the child’s growth.
Tom's approach is straightforward yet compassionate, offering hope and guidance to those grappling with the complexities of addiction within their family. If you're seeking practical advice mixed with genuine empathy, this episode is a must-listen. Tom's candid discussion serves as a gentle reminder that while love is essential, it's equally important to foster independence and accountability in those we care about.