Episode 32

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Published on:

5th May 2025

EP32: Why 'Tough Love' and 'Rock Bottom' Don’t Work in Substance Abuse Disorder Recovery

Is cutting your child off really the best path to recovery—or could it be deepening the disconnect?

Many parents are told to wait for their child to “hit rock bottom” or to apply “tough love,” but this episode challenges those outdated and often harmful approaches. If you’ve been struggling with whether to stay connected or step back, this conversation will give you a compassionate, research-backed perspective.

  • Understand why connection and attachment—not isolation—are the keys to meaningful recovery.
  • Learn how to set healthy boundaries while continuing to show love and support for your child.
  • Discover how your own emotional healing and stability can positively impact your child’s recovery journey.

Listen now to hear expert insight from Mary Crocker Cook and find a more hopeful, heart-centered way to support your child through addiction.

Dive deeper into Mary Crocker Cook’s transformative work on addiction, attachment, and family healing by exploring her books at marycrockercook.com/books.

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.

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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