What crisis brought you to recovery?
My son has been living life in the fast lane since high school. Progressively things got worse as time went by with alcohol, drugs, and gambling. On Labor Day he had a panic attack that ended him up in the ER and from there he was taken to a mental hospital. After a week there he made it to Turning Point to get the help he desperately needed.
Had you ever heard of a Family Recovery Programs like Al-anon or Nar-anon before this crisis?
Yes, my ex-husband was an alcoholic and I did go to several Al-anon meetings. His recovery center had a family weekend and family counseling as well.
What have you learned about the importance of family member recovery?
Addiction is a family illness and family members need help with their own recovery as much as the addicted person. I learned that I have a lot of work to do for myself and that I need to put myself first.
Does the recovery program that you are a member of have online meetings to accommodate during the Covid-19 Pandemic?
Yes, they all do: Turning Point, Al-anon, Gam-anon, Nar-anon all have online meetings.
Did you have any reluctance in accepting your need for your personal recovery?
Yes! When I did Al-anon years ago, I resented it, as I wanted a quick fix. But this time around it all makes sense and has helped so much with gaining serenity.
What would you tell family members who are considering their own recovery?
Run, don’t walk to a meeting. You are in charge of your own happiness. Reading and educating myself helps a lot as well. One day at a time is all we can do.
Have you experienced any stigma surrounding addiction and recovery?
Actually, I have received a lot of support and love. I think it is because I have learned to be open and to share with others.
Is there anything else that you would like to add?
I am very grateful for Turning Point. I do not know how things will go for my son, but I know that I will be okay as I have been able to Let Go and Let God. Through the help of the Turning Point Family group, I have put my son in God’s care.
