Episode 17

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Published on:

12th Mar 2025

Anticipatory Grief: Why Parents of Addicts Mourn Before a Tragedy Even Happens

Have you ever felt an overwhelming sense of grief for something that hasn’t even happened yet? Parents of children struggling with addiction often experience this painful reality—mourning their child’s possible loss before it even occurs.

Loving someone with a substance use disorder is an emotional rollercoaster filled with fear, exhaustion, and heartbreak. The constant worry about their safety can create an ongoing sense of grief, even when they’re still alive. This episode explores anticipatory grief—why it happens, how it affects parents, and how to navigate it without losing hope.

  • Understand what anticipatory grief is and why parents of addicts experience it.
  • Learn how to manage your emotions while still holding onto hope for your child’s recovery.
  • Discover the importance of harm minimisation and self-care to prevent emotional burnout.

If you’ve ever felt the weight of loving someone through addiction, this episode will help you find clarity and resilience. Tune in now to gain insight and support on this challenging journey.

This podcast provides practical guidance and support for families navigating the challenges of substance abuse disorder, offering insights from addiction recovery experts, family therapy, and support groups like Al-Anon and Family Drug Support, with a focus on understanding how to help and support loved ones dealing with addiction, including heroin addiction, through counselling and treatment options.



Show artwork for Family Support In Addiction Recovery : Substance Abuse Disorder Tools Beyond Al- Anon

About the Podcast

Family Support In Addiction Recovery : Substance Abuse Disorder Tools Beyond Al- Anon
Substance Abuse Disorder Tools Beyond Al-Anon
Do you feel overwhelmed and emotionally drained, struggling to support your child with substance abuse disorder?

This podcast offers practical guidance for parents navigating the challenging journey of supporting a child battling addiction without losing themselves along the way.

Each week, you’ll gain critical insights and strategies, including:
Learning how to manage the emotional rollercoaster of addiction with effective coping tools.
Discover techniques to support your child while maintaining your own well-being, like setting boundaries or practising self-care routines.

Finding guidance on overcoming the unique challenges families face with substance abuse disorder.

Hosted by Paul King, a parent who’s been through this journey, made countless mistakes, and is here to help others find a clearer path forward, this show brings together experts in addiction recovery, emotional resilience, and family therapy to equip you with the knowledge and strength to keep going.

Episodes air twice a week: guest interviews on Mondays and personal reflection episodes on Wednesdays.
Ready to take the first step toward healing? Start with Episode 1, where it all begins.

About your host

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Paul King