Addiction

Reduce Worry & Anxiety: Parenting A Drug-Addicted Son

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / October 27, 2024 /

Dealing with a drug-addicted son can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, leaving you overwhelmed with worry and anxiety. It’s a tough road, but you’re not alone in this journey. Many parents face the same challenges, grappling with how to stop worrying about their drug-addicted child. This article aims to provide you with practical strategies and…

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The Blame Game: Understanding Why Drug Addicts Blame Their Parents

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / October 27, 2024 /

When it comes to addiction, one of the most common questions is, “Why do drug addicts blame their parents?” This blame game isn’t just a random act of deflection; it’s deeply rooted in psychological defense mechanisms, family dynamics, and unresolved childhood trauma. When focusing on why addicts blame others, it’s crucial to understand that addiction…

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Coping With A Drug Addicted Son: Emotional Support And Practical Advice

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / October 27, 2024 /

Dealing with a drug addict son can be one of the most heart-wrenching challenges a parent faces. The struggle to balance love, concern, and the need for action can feel overwhelming. But there’s hope and help available. This article aims to provide practical advice and emotional support, guiding parents through this difficult journey. Understanding The…

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Stop Enabling Your Son’s Addiction: A Parent’s Guide To Recovery

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / October 27, 2024 /

When you’re a parent of a son struggling with addiction, it’s easy to fall into the trap of enabling without even realizing it. Enabling can take many forms, like covering up for your son’s behavior, providing financial support, or making excuses for him. While these actions might seem like acts of love, they often prevent…

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Empowering Conversations: How To Talk To Your Son About His Drug Addiction

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / October 27, 2024 /

Discovering that your son is battling drug addiction can be one of the most heart-wrenching experiences for any parent. The feelings of helplessness and uncertainty about how to communicate effectively can be overwhelming. But fear not, there are ways to navigate these tough waters and foster an environment of understanding and support. This article aims…

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Living with an alcoholic husband.

Is My Husband An Alcoholic? 22 Telltale Signs To Look For

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / September 15, 2023 / Comments Off on Is My Husband An Alcoholic? 22 Telltale Signs To Look For

Alcohol, for many, is a way to unwind after a long day or celebrate joyous occasions. However, when the line between occasional drinking and dependency blurs, it can lead to a myriad of problems, both personal and relational. If you’ve found yourself repeatedly questioning, “Is my husband an alcoholic?”, you’re not alone. Many spouses grapple…

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leaving an addict

When to Stay or Go: Breaking Up With An Addict You Love

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / August 13, 2023 / Comments Off on When to Stay or Go: Breaking Up With An Addict You Love

Navigating romantic relationships is much like sailing a ship on uncharted waters. Some days are smooth with clear skies, while others are riddled with turbulent storms. Toss in the complex challenge of a partner’s drug or alcohol addiction, and the journey can feel overwhelming, leaving you grappling with the heart-wrenching decision: should you stay or…

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addicts that relapse

8 Reasons Addicts Relapse When Things Are Good

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / August 10, 2023 / Comments Off on 8 Reasons Addicts Relapse When Things Are Good

Ah, the perplexing paradox of life! Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, and the sun is shining a little brighter, life throws you a curveball. As a mental health counselor, I’ve seen it time and again: individuals on the path to recovery, experiencing a streak of good days, and then… a…

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talking to child about addiction

How To Explain Addiction To A Child: Tips For Parents

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / August 10, 2023 / Comments Off on How To Explain Addiction To A Child: Tips For Parents

Ever tried explaining the stock market to a five-year-old? How about the reason the sky is blue? Kids have this uncanny ability to ask questions that can make even the wisest among us scratch our heads. Now, imagine you have to explain addiction. A bit trickier, right? Through my years as a mental health counselor,…

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drug addict

When Do I Give Up On My Drug Addict Son: How To Help Him

By Laurie Newcomb, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP / August 4, 2023 / Comments Off on When Do I Give Up On My Drug Addict Son: How To Help Him

As a seasoned therapeutic mental health counselor, I’ve seen the roller coaster of emotions parents ride when their child is grappling with addiction. It’s like being stuck on the world’s worst merry-go-round, one that’s spinning out of control with no end in sight.  You might be asking yourself, “When do I step off this ride?”…

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