Most Americans have traveled sufficiently on airplanes to be able to regurgitate the safety instructions given by cabin crew before takeoff. The safety instructions discuss where the exits are and using your seat belt effectively. However, there is that part at the end that discusses loss of cabin pressure. If you’re not familiar, it goes like this:
“In the event of a sudden loss of cabin pressure, masks will descend from the ceiling. Stop screaming, grab the mask, and pull it over your face. If you have a small child or someone who needs assistance traveling with you, secure your mask before assisting with theirs.”
It makes sense, right? You can’t effectively help someone else unless you can get the oxygen first. This is what Al-Anon does for families of addicts in addiction and recovery. Al-Anon will teach you to care for yourself by getting first hand experience of those who have walked in your shoes. Without this knowledge and support, family and loved ones are willing to go to any lengths to correct/stop the addiction. This is draining and mentally demanding and leaves families tired and frustrated when they need to be at their best. Believe it or not, it is possible to be at your best during this difficult time. Also, support groups like Al-Anon provide great experience, strength and hope for everyone in the whole family.
Al-Anon Helps You Change the Things You Can
If you are familiar with the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous, you might know The Serenity Prayer. It’s a short prayer that begins every AA meeting. Essentially, it asks God for “the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” These statements provide a valuable distinction to those struggling with substance abuse as well as the families that support them. Part of supporting your family member while they are in rehab is realizing that much of what happens next is out of your hands. You can’t be there every stride of the way as they work through the fundamental issues of their addiction. You also can’t coerce them to admit they have a problem or to seek help. You can, however, take some time to evaluate the aspects of your family’s lives that you have some control over. Al-Anon support group meetings can assist you to let go of the things you cannot change and offer recommendations for the things you can. If your loved one will sooner or later be returning to your home, a few changes in surroundings can have a strong effect on everyone in the home’s approach and motivation.
Your Situation is Not Unique
Families coping with addiction always feel their circumstances are unique. However, they are no different than most that attend Al-Anon meetings. In fact, most promptly discover they have more in common with Al-Anon members than individuals they have known their entire lives. In recovery, we always assert that no one has to do this alone. Al-Anon provides a great channel of support and compassion, that combined with wellness, will set you at your best while assisting your family member in addiction recovery.
Simple Path Recovery is a beach side, boutique addiction treatment center located in Pompano Beach, FL. Recognized as a Top Florida Drug & Alcohol Rehab, Simple Path is committed to individualized care, 12-step integration, and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). Their addiction helpline is available 24/7 at 855-467-3625.About the Author
Matthew Koenig is the principal of Last Call Marketing, which devotes their efforts to Digital Marketing, Content Marketing, Website Design and SEO, primarily in healthcare and tourism concerns. Mr. Koenig is based out of South Florida. His sober date is June 10, 2013.
