Karen Reass on Healing Families Affected by Addiction
We really can't lead others there or be that power of example if we haven't walked that walk.
Picture a family torn apart by addiction, struggling to find their way back to normalcy. In this episode of 'Friends in Recovery', host Jersey Ed and co-hosts Buckeye Bambi and Super Beth sit down with Karen Reass, an internationally certified drug and alcohol counselor, to discuss the far-reaching impact of addiction on families and the vital role of family support in recovery.
Reass brings a wealth of experience, shedding light on how addiction disrupts family dynamics and the steps needed to rebuild trust and stability. Karen dives into the neurobiology of addiction, explaining how it hijacks the brain's reward system, making natural pleasures seem dull in comparison. She emphasizes the importance of understanding these changes to effectively support loved ones through recovery.
Reass also shares practical relapse prevention techniques and the developmental model of recovery, which focuses on personal growth at different stages of the journey. One of the key takeaways from this episode is the necessity of family involvement in the recovery process. Karen stresses that addiction is a family disease, affecting everyone within the family system.
She highlights the importance of communication, validation, and empathy, along with setting healthy boundaries and prioritizing self-care for both the addict and their loved ones. Karen's insights are a beacon of hope for families grappling with addiction. Her extensive background in working with affected families underscores the need for a holistic, family-centered approach to recovery. This episode is packed with valuable advice and heartfelt discussions, making it a must-listen for anyone touched by addiction.