This is a book being written by parents for parents who are caught amidst an intense, never-ending storm, needing hope and a compass pointing toward hopeful outcomes, and reassurance that recovery and healing are possible.
The difference between this book and other books about addiction:
There are numerous books on addiction, so the question is, what is so different about this one? This book is not written by experts, but by parents who have experienced firsthand the catastrophic effects on their families strugling with substance use disorder (SUD), opioid use disorder (OUD), and mental health disorders. We understand how parents can feel disconnected, helpless, hopeless, stigmatized, and frustrated when trying to get help for loved ones and running into roadblocks.
Hi, I’m Laurie. I am working with Ann on this project as a co-writer and researcher. I am the mother of a son in active addiction. When my son revealed his long-term struggle with opiates, I was relieved and overwhelmed all at once. Relieved because I had been aware that he was struggling, but now I knew why. But I was overwhelmed because I didn’t know how best to help him. I began intensively researching substance use disorder hoping if I improved my knowledge I could be more supportive of my son. As I searched for answers, I discovered so much more than I expected, but my most helpful discovery was that focusing on self-care was a big part of the answer.
Laurie and I met two years ago and became good friends. When she first became aware of her son’s addiction, she was beside herself. We spent hours talking about substance use disorder (SUD) and how complicated it is. We are both passionate about this issue. I knew through countless conversations what we needed to do. One day, after one of our frequent walks, I asked her if she wanted to write this book with me. Our writing styles are quite different, and I instinctively knew if we combined our talents, this book would be amazing. We are not experts by any means, but we are experts concerning addiction and how it affects families.
Why We Chose to Write This Book
To encourage dialogue and to share stories…
We each felt the need to voice our convictions. We don’t want to highlight dreadful stories, but we have lived experiences with substance use disorder, and the stressful impact it can have on families. We are writing this book to offer hope and solace, and to encourage openness and acceptance. Our intention is to offer a practical roadmap through the confusion surrounding SUD. The challenges are real and overwhelming, especially considering that stigma is encountered with SUD. We want to encourage dialogue, and share narratives, including stories of recovery.
Being Mindful of Self-Care
As we continue our research, our interviews, and actively write, we are propelled forward with the need to share. Sharing the need to care for self, to be mindful of self and others, and the importance of self-love.
What We’ve Learned – Self-Care Isn’t Selfish!
Taking care to care for ourselves is important, especially while experiencing stress and traumatic events. We recognize how important it is to take time for self-care, reflection, and mindfulness.
“Self-care is how you take your power back.”
Lalah Delia
Being Mindful of Our Emotional Health
This video highlights how important it is to understand our mental health needs and to recognize when and how to reach out for help.
Lessons from the Mental Health Hospital
This video reached into my heart and tugged! She uses humor and humility as she identifies her struggles with addiction and describes how she slowly finds her way toward recovery! I found this real. A story of self-care and self-realization.
Support our Project, A Path Toward Hope
Your contribution, will help us to complete our project, which is a labor of love. It will help to defray publication costs, fuel, and community outreach.
We are focusing on supporting families under stress, reducing stigma, and promoting awareness of substance use and its devastating effects on families. We also strongly support our recovery communities. We need your help and support. Spread the love. Please donate.
Make a one-time donation
Choose an amount
Or enter a custom amount
Your contribution is sincerely appreciated.
DonateSubscribe to
our free newsletter to get updates on our project, A Path Toward Hope.
Mainely Writing 