Episode 36

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Published on:

19th May 2025

EP36: She Thought It Was Her Job to Save Him—A Mother’s Journey Through Addiction, Grief, and Self-Healing

Have you ever felt like it's your responsibility to save your child from addiction—only to find yourself breaking in the process?

When a child is facing substance use struggles, many parents fall into the trap of over-functioning, losing themselves in the process of trying to fix something they can’t control. In this deeply personal episode, Karen Hardy shares how shifting from control to compassion—and from burnout to boundaries—changed everything in her relationship with her son.

  • Discover the emotional toll of trying to be your child’s savior—and how to reclaim your energy and peace.
  • Learn how staying connected without losing yourself can open the door to real healing.
  • Hear how Karen’s decision to heal herself became the catalyst for her son’s recovery from heroin.

Press play to hear Karen’s powerful journey and learn how choosing self-healing over control can transform your path—and your child’s.

You can read more about Karen’s story and find strength in her book, I Can’t Do This Anymore, available online now https://a.co/d/dPYNPro

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