Having a loved one battling addiction is difficult to witness whether you're a grandmother, mother, father, brother or sister. We often feel powerless and don't know what to do to get through to our loved one. It is difficult to see our loved one self-destruct and as loving family members we only want the best for our loved ones. Getting together, working together and being together can make a world of difference for everyone involved in the battle of addiction.
At the Walgwan Centre we realize that we all have to work together to make a difference in not only working closely with the person battling the addiction but with the family as well. This is a very important component in our program in not only working with the youth in difficulty but working with the family as well. Emphasis is put on the family aspect throughout the youth's treatment plan. It is our goal to work closely with the referral source or other identified agencies and significant family members in strengthening and/or re-establishing a cohesive family dynamics for all those involved. We ask the families of the youth to be involved in their son/daughter's treatment plan by supporting their child through telephone calls on a consistent basis, participate in monthly conference calls or when the need arises outside of the regular monthly conference calls, to participate in family information sessions done by the tutor during family visits in the middle of the program and once again at graduation.
Family members are also invited to work with our team psychologist in repairing damaged relationships. Meetings can be established during the family visits. As well, our elders play an important role within the family dynamics where it is possible to heal through a more cultural approach by incorporating ceremonies animated by the elders to promote healing such as: forgiveness ceremony, sweat lodges and talking circles.
We encourage the significant family members to do their part in the healing process and although this may be challenging at times for both the service and the family it is done so in a respectful, non-judgemental manner in bringing families together again, re-establishing trust, letting go some of the past, and turning the page not only towards a healthier lifestyle but a healthier relationship as well.
Let's get together, work together and be together. |
