Detachment: A Strategy for Friends and Family of Adult Addicts

a post by Michelle Farris for the World of Psychology blog



For every adult who struggles with addiction, there are many affected by its destruction. Family, co-workers, and friends are among those who become witnesses to the downward spiral of self-destructive behavior. Attempts to fix a friend or loved one experiencing addiction become increasingly frustrating as the chaos becomes a part of daily life.

When you are affected by someone else’s drinking or drug use, it is important to remember that even though you cannot prevent what’s happening to them, you can regain your sanity by practicing detachment.

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right through to the last paragraph

It is very important that friends and family of addicts focus on taking care of themselves. To engage in self-care is difficult and takes practice; but ultimately, there is no lasting relief without it.

So important to live your own life and remember the three Cs

• I did not Cause it
• I cannot Control it
• I cannot Cure it

If the statistics are correct then for every addict there are five people who are directly affected by that addiction. One of them is probably you.

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