By Stefanie Poole
If a loved one you know has, or had an addiction, here is what you need to know;
- You are not to blame and you can stop the cycle. You did not cause your loved ones addiction. You are not to blame. The cycle of addiction can end with you. You hold the power. Do the inner work, practice self-love and compassion and know healing is possible.
- Find an outlet and a safe space: Sometimes it can be hard to put into words how you are feeling. You may like to try a creative outlet like art, music, writing, dance, sports. The creative process can be cathartic and help to redirect your emotions. If you can, try to create a safe space away from the chaos. This could be your bedroom, a friend of family members home, a local park or library. Anywhere you feel a sense of peace and safety. If you feel unsafe at home try to speak with other family members or call a national line like 1800RESPECT; (1800 737 732) Australia only.
- Educate yourself on the nature of your loved ones addiction: Knowledge is power. Do your own research. Make sure you are accessing factual information. The more information you know about your loved one’s addiction the better you will be able to support them.
- Reach out for your own support: Don’t bury your emotions or pretend nothing is wrong. Research, explore and ask questions.
Find a trusted family member, friend or health professional to share your concerns with (below is a list of some resources to get you started).
If you are a parent struggling with an addiction, here is what you need to know;
- You are NOT your addiction. Your kids need you. You have what it takes to fight this and make it through these tough times.
- You are not alone: Around 1 in 20 Australians has an addiction or substance abuse problem. (healthdirect.gov.au). While it can feel you’re facing the battle alone, there are others with similar challenges.
- There is help available (for you and your children): There are a variety of resources available once you take the first step to ask for help. Below is a list of services that can assist you.
Reach Out for Help (support and resources)
ADF (Alcohol and Drug Foundation): 1300 85 85 84
DirectLine: 1800 888 236
www.adf.org.au
Turning Point: www.turningpoint.org.au
Gambling Support: 1800 858 858
Youth Drug and Alcohol Advice (YoDAA): 1800 458 685
www.yodaa.org.au
National Alcohol and Drug Hotline: 1800 250 015
Family Drug Support: 1300 368 186
Hello Sunday Morning app
Lifeline (mental health) 13 11 14
Alcohol Anonymous: 1300 222 222
www.aa.org.au
Narcotics Anonymous Victoria: 1300 652 820
www.navic.net.au
Al-anon: 1300 252 666
www.al-anon.org.au
Alateen (for teenagers): 1300 252 666
www.al-anon.org.au
Books that explain addiction to children:
Willingway.com/books-explain-addiction-children/
Canyonvista.com/20-books-explain-addiction-children
Stefanie Poole is a Mental Health Doulaâ„¢ who combines her many years of experience within the mental health field to bring birthing families innovative, holistic support with a specialised focus on mental and emotional health and wellbeing. She is the founder of Birth Education for a Healthy Heart & Mind â„¢ and Mumma Bees â„¢, Peer Support and Training for Birthing Families. She lives on the Mornington Peninsula with her husband, son, and fur babies.
You can connect with Stefanie here:
Insta: @the_stefanie_poole @mummabeesandco
www.stefaniepoole.com