Am I Helping My Son or Enabling His Use?
How does one begin when three substances are involved? CRAFT-informed observation and communication, with a focus on the most dangerous substance firs…
Should I Stick to My Guns or Let Her Come Home?
Allowing a Loved One back into the home is a very personal decision; one that you must be able to live with. CRAFT emphasizes personal safety, both yo…
He Wants Money and Cigarettes While in Treatment. What Should I Do?
Although you have already given so much, you want to find a way to positively reinforce your son’s effort at staying in treatment. The decision…
Supporting Your Loved One is a Reward, Even When They Struggle to Accept it
She’s showing up for her brother all the time. Trouble is, he only seems to want her around when he’s drinking. When he’s sober, he avoids her a…
Upset about a Loved One’s Addiction? 4 Steps You Can Take Now
So you're mad or hurt or feeling hopeless? To be effective at helping your addicted family member, you must first get a handle on your negative feelin…
What Does Being “In Denial” Actually Mean: In Denial Definition
Acceptance of a painful reality is a process and takes time. If it's happening to you, be open to the truth and gentle with yourself. If it's happenin…
Recovery from Addiction Is a Bumpy Road
Your Loved One was doing better than ever before. With the lockdown and without sufficient recovery input, they were thrown off course. Dominique Simo…
Bribes, Incentives, and Positive Reinforcement – Part 2
In this follow-up to her post on incentives, bribes and reinforcing, Laurie MacDougall shares her "One and Done" approach. Read on for a practical and…
Bribes, Incentives, and Positive Reinforcement – Part 1
A family member writes in wondering about rewarding her loved one for attending a few recovery group meetings. Guest author and recovery enthusiast La…
The Power of Language
Laurie MacDougall discusses the dramatic impact that language has on our discussions of Substance Use Disorder. Let's work together to reduce stigma, …