E 158: The Hidden Impact of SUD on Siblings: Guest Lee S Varon
In this episode, Lee S. Varon, LICSW, a social worker, writer, and author of My Brother is Not a Monster: A Story of Addiction and Recovery and A Kids Book About Overdose, joins us to discuss the impact of Substance Use Disorder (SUD) on siblings, especially those who do not struggle with addiction themselves. Lee shares her personal experiences growing up with a family member who had SUD and how it shaped her approach to working with families impacted by addiction.
Lee’s conversation highlights the important yet often overlooked topic of how SUD affects everyone in the family, especially young children and siblings who are left to navigate the chaos. She emphasizes the importance of open communication, setting aside time for children without SUD, encouraging their individual pursuits, and ensuring they have support and a space to share their concerns. Lee also offers practical advice on how parents can create balance in the home and provide a safe, supportive environment for all their children.
Key Takeaways:
- Clear Communication: Explain the family situation to children in age-appropriate terms, being open about what’s happening without shying away from difficult conversations.
- Make Time for Children Without SUD: Despite the focus on addiction, it's essential to carve out moments to spend with children who are not struggling with SUD to ensure they feel seen and heard.
- Encourage Individual Pursuits: Support hobbies, goals, and interests outside of the addiction dynamic to help children feel empowered and valued.
- Listen and Support: Actively listen to children’s concerns, both about their sibling with SUD and their own lives. Ensure therapy or support groups are available to them for processing emotions.
Lee's work continues to help families affected by SUD, and her books serve as a valuable resource for facilitating tough conversations.
Follow Lee on social media:
Twitter: @leesvaron
Instagram: @leesvaron
Attn: All speakers, healers, coaches, therapists, and authors. We need you to share your wisdom. I am starting a series of courses called "Collective Wisdom Healing Series" It is a bundle of 50 courses, all created with the wisdom from people like you. If you want to find out how to grow your business in one of these amazing courses for less than 3 cents a day, let me know. Book a quick chat, and let's talk about how your widsom can make a legacy and help thousands around the world.. https://calendly.com/tammyvincent/new-meeting
Grab My Signature Course "Trials To Triumph: An Adult Childs Emotional Freedom Blueprint" for just $24 (a $173 Savings) Grab it here: https://www.tammyvincent.com/course USe code "HEALFOR24" to grab the savings.
Do you have a question you want answered on the next episode of "Adult Child of Dysfunction": Visit https://www.speakpipe.com/Tammyvincentcoaching and ask the question. Make sure you tell me who you are so that I can let you know when the answer goes live!
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1087928608822377
Learn How Essential Oils Can Help You Fix What Ails You Naturally
https://calendly.com/tammyvincent/head-to-toe-wellness-consultation
Interested in Booking Tammy for a speaking engagement? Reach out now and let's see if I would be a great fit for your next event...
https://calendly.com/tammyvincent/speakers-event-chat
Want to watch this instead of listen? Most Episodes are Copies Onto My YouTube Channel. Check it out here:
https://www.youtube.com/@AdultChildofDysfunction
(Disclaimer: Some of these shownotes and episodes have affiliate links. If you purchase, I will receive a small commission, with no cost to you of course)
About Tammy:
Tammy Vincent, a survivor and thriver, has transformed her life from the challenges of being an adult child of two alcoholic parents. With a Masters in Education and addiction and recovery certifications, shes a beacon of hope for others on their paths to transformation.
