Network of Hope

When a person is suffering from addiction to alcohol or drugs, their family and friends suffer along with them in different ways. Addiction disrupts relationships, breaks down trust and triggers many unhealthy responses and habits.

Family addiction support can play a significant and positive role in the recovery process. When family and friends better understand addiction and why their loved one uses substances, they are more likely to become a healthy resource and have a positive impact on their loved one.

The most beneficial action family and friends can take is to seek professional advice from trained individuals who can prepare them for the challenge and help them prioritize their own health.

NCWR at Oklahoma State University offers a free, virtual family support program led by addiction and mental health specialists. Hope Network improves communication, addresses conflicts and creates a space of healing and wellness for family and friends.

Many family members who make the decision to seek professional help wish they had started sooner. Here are several key benefits of professional family support:

• Mends relationships
• Encourages forgiveness
• Improves communication skills
• Addresses past conflicts
• Heals grief, guilt, anger and mistrust
• Sets a foundation for preventing relapse

“When you have a family member or loved one who is suffering from substance use addiction, it can take a toll on everyone involved and their relationships,” said Melissa Baker, counselor at the NCWR Addiction Recovery Clinic. “We offer new approaches that can provide different perspectives on how people are impacted by addiction and how changing your way of thinking and interacting can make a positive change.”

Our next series begins February 2, 2022 and runs each Wednesday from noon to 1:15 p.m. For more information on Hope Network, contact the NCWR Addiction Recovery Clinic at 918-561-1890 or HopeNetwork@okstate.edu.

Deanne Vick | updated January 18, 2022
deanne.vick@okstate.edu