The Importance of Self-Care
Your family member has struggled with addiction in a variety of ways. There have been many times where you worried, were the caretaker, or watched them spiral out of control. They then sought treatment, and have returned to their homes. They now have the tools and the resources to help them in their recovery, one day at a time. But what about you? What role do you play now? How do you move forward in your life and not repeat the same patterns as before?
Rimrock is here to help you. We understand the vital role you play as the family member, and we also know that addiction affects the whole family. Below are some helpful tips on how to move forward and walk alongside your family member in recovery, but also maintain healthy boundaries and ways to keep yourself healthy.
1) Set boundaries. Let your “no” be “no” and stick with it. Boundaries don’t mean anything if you don’t follow them. It will be difficult to watch a family member suffer with addiction, however enabling behaviors does not help them, but it harms them.
2) Develop a support system for yourself. Who can you call when you need something? It is important to have your team to help give advice and keep you feeling supported and strong. Also, find your local Al-Anon meeting. You will find like minded family members that can walk beside you.
3) Consider Counseling for yourself. We understand that trauma can happen to the family members during the darkest times of addiction. It is fair to say you may need someone to talk to. To process through the old, it is easier to forgive and move forward to embrace the new.
4) Last but not least, recognize when you need a break. Self-care is the most important tool in recovery, especially for the family members. Go for a walk, take a nap, journal. Take some time to reflect on your thoughts and stay grounded. You are the most important person to care for in your life.
