How to Cope Helps Families Dealing With Addiction

How to Cope was launched a little over a year ago in Ridgefield. Since then close to 40 families have benefitted from this program that provides support for family members impacted by addiction.  

“How to Cope put my son’s addiction in an understandable context and reminded us to think about and protect our own needs.”   H.T., Wilton – How to Cope participant  

The feedback from family members has been overwhelming positive with 80 percent of the participants reporting that the addicted family member had gotten into treatment and was working on recovery since they completed the program.  

“I appreciate the continued support, understanding and feedback. Knowing that the decisions I make daily have been correct, even though I doubt myself at times. Thank you for everything!”   S.P., Southport – How to Cope participant 

When a family member or loved one is addicted, it puts tremendous stress on every one. Adding to the stress, is the embarrassment and shame that often keeps people from seeking help. When families begin to understand that addiction is a disease, they are able to start the recovery process for themselves. And when this happens, the addicted person often starts to change their behavior.  

“How to Cope provided an opportunity for me to talk, listen and learn in a safe, comfortable environment. I finally felt like it wasn’t just my husband and I living with addiction.”   J.P.,  Ridgefield – How to Cope participant  

Because the groups are small and confidential, participants are free to open up and share with each other. For many, this is the first time they are able to share the pain and struggle of having an addicted family member.  

How to Cope differs from Al-Anon in that there are seven focused sessions run by a licensed marriage and family (LMFT) who specializes in treating addiction. Participants are given the support, skills and a road map to help them move forward in a positive direction.

A free reunion group meets monthly for those who have done the program.   The next sessions of How to Cope starts on Monday, October 14th in Ridgefield.

For Danbury groups, contact Irene Sherlock by email at: isherlock@mccaonline, or call at (203) 456-0528. For Ridgefield groups, contact Danielle Sileo by email at: dsileo@mccaonline, or call at (203) 438-8680.
MCCAOnline.com.