When your kids are struggling with an addiction, it can be overwhelming and can upend the entire family. Learn some practical tips that can help your family to navigate this difficult issue.
Talking Points:
- Addiction is complex. It’s unique to each person and it’s more complicated than you might think. It’s important for parents to research and find resources for understanding why addiction happens and how it affects everyone involved.
- Take the time to understand the varying treatment options that exist. Once you realize treatment is necessary in helping your loved one, then you need to find the right kind of treatment that will work.
- The idea of hitting rock bottom is also different for each person. As parents, we wish for the rock bottom because we think that means your loved one will get help. But the truth is, many people can hover right above rock bottom and still function. Matthew 11:28-29
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Describe your experience with addiction. What has proven most challenging to you up to this point?
- How do you relate to Teri’s story? What has your experience taught you about addiction thus far?
- What have you learned about the various treatment options that are available? What has proven to be confusing? What has proven to be helpful?
- What is your understanding of the “rock bottom” idea? Has the addict in your life ever hit that point? Explain.
- What are your biggest fears for your child? Where do you find comfort?
- Read Matthew 11:28-29. What burdens do you need to give over to the Lord? In your opinion, what does it look like to surrender your fears and trust the Lord?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
