The Family Journey of Addiction Recovery with Christopher Crawford

Going into 2020, one in seven adults in the United States
experienced a substance use disorder. As of June 2020, the CDC
said that 13 percent of adults reported an increase in their use
of substances to cope with the stress of the pandemic, with this
statistic accompanied by a tremendous increase in overdose
deaths. As a result, we feel it is important to dive into the
difficult topic of substance use disorders and their impact, not
only on the individual but also on the family system, and examine
what the recovery process looks like from both perspectives as
well. To help us do this is local counsellor, Christopher
Crawford, who has over 20 years’ therapeutic experience working
with adolescents, young adults, and adults with mental health and
substance abuse issues. In this episode, Chris addresses the
shame and blame cycle that families experience and how to
navigate through it, some of the tools he uses to help families
and individuals impacted by addiction, and the importance of
setting boundaries and constant communication. There is no
one-size-fits-all solution for recovery, which is why this is an
important conversation for both families and individuals
struggling with addiction. Tune in today to learn more!





Key Points From This Episode:


An introduction to Chris and his experience as a licensed
chemical dependency counsellor. 

What Chris wants individuals suffering from substance use
disorders to understand.

The shame and denial that individuals struggling with
addiction often feel.

Why it can be so difficult to navigate out of a ‘shame and
blame’ cycle.

The relationship between dysfunction and disorder and the
internal conflict it creates.

Why change can feel threatening and how Chris aids families
through those changes.

Some of the tools Chris uses to help families and individuals
impacted by addiction.

Understanding that the substance is just a symptom of a much
larger issue.

Chris shares some example to illustrate the importance of
setting boundaries.

When it might be necessary for your counsellor to set
boundaries for you.

Find out why Chris makes it clear to his clients that he
can’t treat them while they are under the influence of
substances.

What he looks for in a treatment center: accountability,
structure, and collaboration.

Chris explains the process of entering treatment at an
in-patient facility and emphasizes the importance of continuity
of care.

Some of the options available to you when it comes to
insurance cover.

Common emotions that family members experience while an
addict is in treatment.

What recovery looks like after leaving a treatment facility,
from support meetings to professional mental health guidance.

The value of replacing unhealthy habits with healthy ones,
like exercise.

How families can participate in the journey of recovery,
including family support meetings.

Why Chris advocates for keeping the family together in the
recovery journey.

Chris shares a story of hope about two of his clients, Justin
and Zach.

A final reminder from Chris that there is a solution, there
is hope, and you are not alone.






Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:


Christopher Crawford on Psychology Today


Life Spring Behavioral Health


Alcoholics Anonymous


Mosaics of Mercy Resources