I suggest buying this book!
A Lifeline for Families: A Parent’s Review of “Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change”. Yes, I am that parent, Cassandra (:
Review:
As a parent who has witnessed the devastating impact of addiction in my own child and in our family, “Beyond Addiction” has been an absolute lifeline, a real life saver I believe wholeheartedly. I do not say that lightly. I really love this book and refer to it often. I recommend it constantly and to anyone who asks me what book to start with when this is going on in their life. This book, written by Jeffrey Foote, Carrie Wilkens, and Nicole Kosanke, offers a wealth of knowledge, guidance, and hope for families navigating the treacherous waters of addiction.
From the very first page, the authors’ compassionate and understanding tone resonated deeply with me. I had felt like I was finally in the right place. It just felt so right to me. I was over come with tears of feeling truly understood for the first time. I was so amazed I got that feeling and so emotional from a book when dealing with such a serious life altering event that was going on in my world. It was like the authors were talking right to me. They acknowledge the pain, confusion, and helplessness that parents often experience when faced with a loved one’s addiction. By sharing real-life stories and case studies, they create a sense of community and remind us that we are not alone in this journey.
What sets “Beyond Addiction” apart is its focus on empowering families, (I LOVE THAT), to take an active role in their loved one’s recovery. I was all ready doing that, and the book let that be okay. Not making me feel ashamed that I was doing that. The authors provide practical strategies and tools that parents can implement to support their child while also taking care of themselves. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and seeking support from others who have walked a similar path.
One of the most valuable aspects of this book is its emphasis on evidence-based treatments and interventions. The authors debunk common myths surrounding addiction and provide a clear understanding of what works and what doesn’t. For example that recovery is possible even if some of our loved ones choose not to go into a rehabilitation facility for an extended period of time. They guide parents through the process of finding effective treatment options and some example questions of what to ask.
Throughout the book, the authors stress the importance of communication and connection within the family. I had been looking for something like that and found it. What a relief. I was not crazy for wanting to have a connection with my son through this difficult time. Me being kind was okay and I wasn’t being labeled or shamed for doing that. The book gave me the permission to meet myself where I was at and that was okay to do at my own pace. There is not something wrong with me because I wanted to do things differently then others and still wanted to have a relationship with my son, HOW AMAZING. They offer guidance on how to have difficult conversations, rebuild trust, and foster a supportive environment that promotes healing and recovery. The practical exercises provided in the book serve as valuable tools for parents to engage with their child and facilitate meaningful dialogue.
What I appreciate most about “Beyond Addiction” is its message of HOPE. I am a hopeful person most of the time and felt like my hope was being sucked out of me and that I was crazy for being hopeful and the messages I kept getting was to let things go at this point, let my son go. I was even told by people who meant well that your situation is hopeless. The authors firmly believe in the potential for recovery and offer stories of individuals who have successfully overcome addiction. They remind parents that while the road may be challenging, there is always hope for a brighter future. How refreshing!!
I will always be extremely grateful to the Book Beyond Addiction for several reasons. I will focus on a few for now. The life saving book introduced me to the wonderful staff at the Center for Motivation and Change, they are the doctors who wrote the book. Meeting them through Zoom has been a game changer for me. I took their courses, I became certified in the Invitation To Change Approach (ITC). Which I happen to love too. I also found SMART Recovery through the Beyond Addiction book: How Science and Kindness Help People Change. I then found some Family and Friend meetings at SMART Recovery that have helped me greatly and changed my life for the better. I feel the book and the meetings have saved my own life and my son’s life. I get choked up even as I type this out. I am now a Family and Friends Facilitator at SMART Recovery too. ALL THIS FROM THE AMAZING BOOK BEYOND ADDICTION!! It changed the course of my life for the positive. It makes me think of the sayaing, “Life’s Gifts Often Come Wrapped In Sandpaper”, sometimes. That is only a few examples of how much this book has impacted my life in such a positive way, imagine that?! There are more ways too. Who knows what the book can do for you. If nothing else has been working. I invite you to give this book a try.
In conclusion, “Beyond Addiction” is a must-read for anyone touched by addiction. It is an invaluable resource for parents navigating the complexities of addiction within their family. It provides practical strategies, evidence-based information, and a sense of community that is essential for parents seeking to support their loved ones on the path to recovery or the possibility of a path to recovery, even if there is not one in sight. There is not one way to recovery. I highly recommend this book to any parent who is facing the challenges of addiction and looking for guidance, understanding, and hope. I also recommend this amazing book to anyone who is learning how to navigate the roads of addiction and the possible path of recovery of a Loved One. This book I believe helps everyone not just the parent. It really was nice to read something geared for the parent of a struggling child at any age. This book I believe helps change lives in a dramatic and helpful way for a more positive outcome even if your Loved One chooses to recovery or not. I do have the hope that all of our Loved One choose Recovery. Unfortunately that is not always the case and this book helps you with that hard reality.
I hope this book review helps you gain insight into the book “Beyond Addiction.” If you have any further questions or need assistance with anything, please feel free to ask me, Cassandra Toppi at 516-984-3756 or
