Grief and Loss in Recovery: Finding Balance Amid Emotional Waves
Talking about working through emotions requires a willingness to acknowledge the loss and change.
Ever felt like you're riding an emotional rollercoaster while navigating recovery? In this episode, hosts Jerry Fouchey and Barb Smith tackle the often-overlooked topic of grief and loss in addiction and recovery. With years of experience, Jerry, a Dawn Farm Personal Medicine Therapist, and Barb, author of 'Brent’s World', bring both professional insights and personal stories to the table. They discuss how unresolved grief can shadow both individuals and their families as they move from addiction to recovery.
You’ll hear about different theories of grief and how they apply to those struggling with substance use disorders. They also dive into the unique losses faced by families and the emotional tasks required to heal. Barb shares her poignant story of losing her son to addiction and how activism has become her way of coping. Jerry recounts his own experience with loss, including a touching story about his father.
The hosts emphasize the importance of expressing emotions creatively and tangibly, whether through art, writing, or community support. They even touch on faith-based groups that can offer additional layers of support. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with the dual challenges of grief and recovery, offering practical advice and heartfelt stories to help you find your way through the storm.