The following article presents four developmental stages of family recovery described by Brown and Lewis, and describes for each stage, the possible impact of the family environment—in particular, parenting practices on child development. These different stages of recovery appear to correspond to unique parenting challenges. The following is based on a compilation of knowledge from […]
Defenses and Denial
Being in recovery means we don’t need or want to lie to ourselves. Denial is our escape from reality, our fantasy. It’s lying to ourselves. All is fine, and we are in control. Denial keeps us from the truth. A spiritual reality is that when we experience faith, we can change and transform. Many of […]
Unhealthy Families
During active addiction, the family members may take on a variety of “survival roles.” These roles help them cope with situations within the family, but in the long run often prevent people from interacting with others in healthy ways. The following are some common survival roles: The Enabler: This person is usually the closest to […]
Denial Ain’t a River in Egypt.
Denial is the PRIMARY psychological symptom of addiction. It is an automatic and unconscious component of addictions. Addicts are often the last to recognize their disease, pursuing their addictions into the gates of insanity, the collapse of health and ultimately death. Sadly, many addicts continue to act out on their addictions while their world collapses […]