Starting a recovery program is a big commitment. Recovery is the single, most important thing that you could ever do for yourself. While in recovery, you need to prioritize staying sober. If you have a family, this may seem like a large task to undertake. Be encouraged, it is possible to be present for your family while focusing on your recovery.

1- Talk with your family about treatment and recovery. Addiction treatment professionals often encourage family to be part of your treatment. Keeping your family in the loop allows them to be supportive and give you the space you need to work towards your recovery goals.

2- Set boundaries. If you can’t attend every family function, that is okay. This is why talking with your family about recovery is so important. Going to every family function may not be possible in the beginning. Set boundaries with your family and continue working your program. They will understand.

3- Take care of yourself first. Taking care of yourself may seem selfish, especially if you have been absent due to active addiction. You can’t take care of others if you aren’t stable. If you’ve paid attention to announcements before an airplane flight, the attendants always tell you that in an emergency, you need to put on your oxygen mask first before helping others. Recovery is the same concept. You can’t give what you don’t have.

4- Include your family in your recovery. Al-Anon is a 12 step program for families who have a loved one in recovery or addiction. Al-Anon teached your family how to best support you while also taking care of themselves. The Kimberly Center also includes family in treatment, so consider taking advantage of this.

5- Set aside time just for family. The same way that you set time aside for meetings and recovery, your family needs the same. Consider setting time aside one day a week just for family. Go out and have fun with them. Have dinner. Talk about life and ask how they are feeling. Your  family loves you. You need them just as much as they need you.

At The Kimberly Center, we care about your recovery. Recovery is more then not using. Recovery is also about healing. Healing for yourself and your entire family. Call us now at 855-4-KCENTER to learn more about how treatment can help you and your family get closer and move forward.