Strong Emotions: How Do They Affect CRAFT?

Strong Emotions: How Do They Affect CRAFT?

Ever feel like your emotions are driving the bus, especially when dealing with a loved one's addiction? In this episode of 'Coming Up for Air', hosts Kayla Solomon and Dominique Simone Levine dive into the whirlwind of strong emotions and how they impact the CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) approach. They explore how emotions like anger and frustration can derail your efforts to connect with your loved one, and why it's crucial to manage these feelings separately.

Kayla shares her personal experiences with anger, discussing how it can be both a motivator and a roadblock. She even talks about how boxing became her go-to outlet for releasing pent-up emotions. Dominique brings in the perspective of setting boundaries and recognising when your emotions are triggered by someone else's actions. Together, they highlight the importance of self-awareness and finding healthy ways to express and manage strong emotions.

They also touch on the concept of 'emotional shutdown' and how it can be a defence mechanism that isolates you from others. This episode is packed with practical advice and relatable anecdotes that can help you navigate the emotional rollercoaster of supporting a loved one with addiction. Don't miss out on these valuable insights—your well-being could depend on it.