In this episode, we explore the transformative power of positive reinforcement when supporting a loved one with addiction. Learn how small affirmations, encouragement, and focusing on progress—no matter how small—can foster trust, promote chang...

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, we sit down with Kathy, a woman whose journey through Al-Anon has transformed her life and relationships. She shares her story of finding hope, rediscovering herself, and learning how to navigate life wi...

As the year comes to a close, it's the perfect time to reflect on your journey and set yourself up for success in the months ahead. In this episode, we explore the power of looking back to move forward, unpack the SMART goal framework, and shar...

As another year comes to a close, it’s time to take a step back and reflect on the different areas of your life—relationships, work, health, personal growth, and more. In this episode, we’ll work through a holistic year-end review and a way to ...

In this episode, we explore Step 12 from the Al-Anon perspective: “Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to others, and to practice these principles in all our affairs.” What does...

In this episode, we dive into the idea that addiction goes beyond substances like drugs and alcohol. From social media scrolling to shopping sprees, binge-watching shows to overworking, we all grapple with behaviors rooted in overconsumption. W...

The holiday season can be a time of joy and connection, but for those with loved ones struggling with substance abuse, it often brings unique challenges. In this episode, we discuss practical strategies to protect your own peace and well-being ...

Join us as we explore Step 11: 'Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.' In this episode, we dive deep i...

In this episode, we explore a simple, compassionate guide to starting a prayer and meditation practice. When someone close to you struggles with substance abuse, feelings of helplessness, stress, and even anger can be overwhelming. Prayer a...

In this episode, we sit down with Jacquelin, who shares her powerful story of growing up in a household affected by alcohol use disorder. Jacquelin opens up about the impact it had on her and the resilience she built along the way. Now, as an a...

In this episode, we explore the complex issue of control when dealing with a loved one struggling with addiction. It's easy to feel helpless, and sometimes, controlling their actions seems like the only way to protect them—and yourself. But is ...

In this episode, we explore the impact of emotional hangovers on those who love someone struggling with addiction. These emotional hangovers—feelings of overwhelm, guilt, or anxiety that persist long after a crisis has passed—can take a serious...

In this episode, we focus on Step 10 of Al-Anon’s 12 Steps: 'Continued to take personal inventory and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.' We discuss how this vital step encourages ongoing self-reflection, honesty, and growth in the journ...

 In this powerful episode, I sit down with Tom, a former addict who has transformed his life through recovery and is involved in both Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Al-Anon. He shares his inspiring journey from the depths of addiction to fi...

Hello and thank you for tuning in this week.  This episode is a bit introspective as I reflect on my Grandaughter, Ocean.  I have been thinking about the family chains of addiction which led me down some unusual and eye opening paths....

In this episode, we explore the unexpected yet powerful role that laughter and smiling can play in coping with the challenges of loving someone with an addiction. While addiction brings immense stress and emotional pain, we dive into how moment...

Addiction doesn’t just affect the person struggling with it; it creates a ripple effect that impacts everyone around them. One of the most challenging emotions loved ones face is ambiguous grief—the pain of losing someone who is still physicall...

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of Step 9 in Al-Anon: "Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others." We delve into the emotional and spiritual journey of making amen...

So often when we have someone who suffers with addiction in our world, our lives become stress filled and our own health may slip. In  this episode, I talk with Carole- a seasoned health coach who specializes in helping people lead healthi...

In this episode, we dive into the shadowy corners of the mind that often emerge when you have a loved one struggling with addiction. We’ll explore the difficult and sometimes taboo thoughts that arise—guilt, resentment, fear, and even anger. Th...

Loving someone who struggles with addiction can be an overwhelming and heartbreaking journey. In this episode, we explore the dangerous pitfall of self-pity that often accompanies this experience. While it’s natural to feel sadness and frustrat...

Hello, so happy you are listening to How to Cope With the Dope.  In this episode, we explore Step 8 of the 12 Steps of Al-Anon, a crucial part of the journey toward healing and recovery. Step 8 asks us to make a list of all persons we have...

In this illuminating episode, I welcome Craig Johnson, a dedicated mental health therapist with extensive experience in addiction treatment and recovery. If you have a loved one grappling with addiction, this episode is for you.Today on ...

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating concept of the Drama Triangle, a powerful model that reveals the roles we play in conflict situations and how these roles can trap us in cycles of negativity. Created by Dr. Stephen Karpman, the Dra...