Watching an adult child struggle with an addictive disorder is a gut-wrenching experience. Setbacks can be discouraging, leaving you and your adult child in a state of hopelessness. However, you can successfully weather this test of your resilience. Below, we suggest 5 ways to help you and your child deal with setbacks in addiction recovery.
#1 Recognize That Setbacks Are Inevitable In The Battle For Recovery
All in all, recovery is a highly individualized experience. However, it’s important to realize that setbacks are an unavoidable challenge. Being aware of warning signs and triggers can make a crucial difference.
- HALT (hungry, angry, lonely, and tired): This acronym applies to many high-risk situations. Avoiding these symptoms of distress should be a priority. You can help by planning meals, encouraging healthy habits, and attending therapy sessions together.
- Stress is a major relapse trigger. It affects both the body and mind. You can’t eliminate all stresses from your child’s life. However, you can help him or her learn safe, effective coping mechanisms to deal with them. It is also important to do whatever you can to keep familial conflict to a minimum.
- Do everything you can to encourage your child to avoid social situations that involve addictive substances.
2. Engage in Spiritual Activities Together
While Shenandoah Valley Adult & Teen Challenge isn’t a clinical facility, the power of collective faith can be transformative. Encourage regular participation in activities such as:
- Faith-based group discussions.
- Prayer and meditation sessions.
- Scripture readings and reflections.
Being part of a faith community and engaging in these activities can provide invaluable support and reassurance, especially during trying times.
#3 Rely On Peer Support To Deal With Setbacks In Addiction Recovery
Recovering from addiction involves major lifestyle changes. Encourage your child to spend time with those who have achieved sobriety. Recovery is an undeniably difficult process, but your tenacity will be rewarded. People with addictive disorders often benefit from peer support organizations, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous.
Your child’s treatment team can recommend peer support groups to support his or her recovery. You can help by attending therapy meetings together. Do everything you can to adjust the family’s schedule so that you can participate regularly in group meetings.
#4 Prioritize Your Own Health & Well-Being
As a parent, you want to do everything in your power to help your adult child succeed. However, it’s important to secure your own well-being as well. Beware of compassion fatigue, which can place you at risk for significant health problems.
Setting an example for healthy living is particularly important. Eat well, get the sleep you need, exercise, and enjoy some favorite activities. You can invite your child to join you. Don’t nag; just let your child know you would enjoy the company.
#5 Retain Hope In The Face Of Uncertainty
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future ~ Jeremiah 29:11
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint ~ Isaiah 40:31
Hope is a precious commodity when the odds are against you. When your child loses hope, you must retain your own. Remember the scriptural promises above. Assure your adult child that it’s possible to live a full and rewarding life. Help him or her work towards a goal now, rather than putting everything on hold until every problem is solved.
Setbacks are common for those with addiction disorders. Refrain from second-guessing and doubting yourself. Remember that you play a vital role in helping your child stay on the road to recovery.
For more information on how Shenandoah Valley Adult & Teen Challenge can help, contact us. Our compassionate and caring staff stand ready to answer your questions and address your concerns.
