Living While Loving Your Child Through Addiction

In this heartfelt episode, Heather shares her perspective on the damaging labels of codependent and enabler that are often placed on parents. She explains why these labels are not only unhelpful but also undermine a parent's natural instincts—instincts that are, in fact, a powerful tool for connection and support. Heather emphasizes that parents don’t need warnings about what not to do. Instead, t...

In the last episode, we explored why our kids can excel in unexpected areas—like chess, gas prices, or mental math—but struggle with everyday tasks like making a phone call or getting to an appointment on time. We looked at the brain science behind these inconsistencies and how substance use impacts different cognitive functions. But now comes the next step: How do we work with these realities ins...

Have you ever felt completely baffled by your child’s behavior? Maybe they can play chess skillfully but can’t seem to get ready for an appointment on time. Maybe they have zero concept of time but can tell you the gas prices at every station in town. These inconsistencies can feel frustrating and even personal—like they don’t care or aren’t trying. But what if there’s a scientific explanation? In...

When we have a child struggling, it’s easy to feel like our happiness is tied to theirs. That belief, often summed up in the phrase, "You’re only as happy as your unhappiest child," can leave us feeling powerless and overwhelmed. But what if letting go of that belief could create more peace, joy, and connection—not just for you, but for your child as well? In this heartfelt episode, Heat...

In this episode, Heather welcomes Dominique, founder and host of the podcast For Love of Recovery, which focuses on helping siblings navigate the challenges of having a brother or sister struggling with substance use. Together, they dive into the unique experiences that siblings face, which are often overlooked. Dominique shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind her podcast, and insight...

The holidays can be one of the most challenging times of the year, especially when your child is struggling with substance use. The stress, uncertainty, and longing for things to be different can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to define your holiday season. In this episode, Heather shares simple yet powerful strategies to help you take care of yourself, honor your emotions, and create momen...

Heather explores the complex topic of manipulation in the context of addiction and family dynamics. When your child is using substances, it’s common to experience behaviors that feel manipulative or self-serving. However, Heather emphasizes the importance of stepping back to see these actions through a compassionate lens, which can empower parents to respond with clarity rather than react out of f...

Description: In this episode, Heather offers gentle support and guidance for those days when it feels like you can’t stop crying. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by emotions and unsure of how to move forward, this episode is here to help. Heather shares tools for self-awareness, honoring your feelings, and finding the willingness to sit with discomfort. She also provides practical tips for managing...

In this short meditation (pairs with ep#102), Heather guides you through a calming practice designed to help you embrace acceptance. Remember, acceptance is a practice—listen to this meditation as often as you need to regain clarity and find peace. Let this be your go-to tool whenever you need a moment of stillness to process and reset. Resources From Heather Ross Coaching GROUP COACHING PROGRAM -...

In this episode, Heather delves into the concept of acceptance, highlighting that it's not a final destination but a continuous practice requiring intention and effort—especially when life unfolds in ways we never anticipated and find unacceptable. We'll define what acceptance really means, why it’s so critical for your peace of mind, and provide three actionable steps to help you move closer to i...

In this episode, Heather welcomes Debby back for another deep conversation about wellness and the overwhelming pressures many women face today. They discussed why so many women are on the edge of burnout—juggling multiple roles like mother, spouse, friend, and employee while feeling unseen and disconnected from themselves. Heather and Debby dive into how living in a state of overwhelm has become t...

In this episode, you’ll learn six impactful changes that can transform your approach to loving your child through their addiction. These insights will help you reduce the chaos using practical tools.  You’ll also learn the value of shifting your focus from trying to control the situation or your child to controlling what is within your power—you. By reducing the chaos and taking charge of your own...

This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)  and their far-reaching impacts, providing valuable insights for parents, caregivers, and anyone impacted by these experiences. Through this lens, we explore the often-overlooked trauma that ACEs represent and the importance of understanding these experiences. Join us as we navigate these complex issues with compas...

New season, new name, and Heather’s unfiltered perspective. Topics covered in this episode: The significance of creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment. The impact of stigmatized language and beliefs. The concept of "rock bottom" vs. "turning point" in addiction recovery. The double standards in labeling parental behavior as codependent in addiction cases vs. other...

In this podcast episode, guest Mike Brown, president and founder of the Never Use Alone Hotline (NUA), shares his journey from substance use to becoming a recovery advocate. Mike started NUA in response to his experience with the treatment industry, focusing on harm reduction and overdose prevention. NUA operates as a peer-led nonprofit, offering support to individuals using substances alone throu...

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Lara Okoloko and Heather discuss the delicate balance of influence and autonomy in parent-child relationships, particularly in the context of addiction. Lara empathizes with parents caught in the bind of being blamed for the negative aspects of enabling without receiving any credit for the positive influence they may have. She shares personal insights, reflecting on...

Your Questions Answered. A few months back, Heather reached out to her Facebook group to inquire about their burning questions on eating disorders. Why? Because navigating a child's struggle with both substance use and an eating disorder can feel like playing an endless game of whack-a-mole. Just as you address one issue, another one seems to surface. Eating disorders are often as misunderstoo...

Do you want regret free interactions and a stronger connection with your child? The art of authentic communication takes you from resentment to connection. You can find out how to achieve this result while taking care of yourself. This podcast episode takes an emotional turn, as the host shares her journey of self-awareness and vulnerability. The episode doesn't just offer valuable advice for...

The pain of feeling disconnected from your child can be overwhelming, but there are powerful ways to shift your approach and create the deep, meaningful connection you desire. Empathy, compassion, and effective communication are at the root of human connection. They’re also a critical component of shaping your experience of your child’s addiction. When you access painful memories with feelings of...

Does this sound familiar? As a parent of a child struggling with addiction, you may have been told to use tough love and set strict rules to help them recover. However, this approach can often lead to feelings of guilt, frustration, and helplessness as you watch your child continue to struggle or get worse. It's time to discover a more effective and compassionate approach to supporting your ch...

Do you have a child or loved one struggling with addiction or mental health issues? Are you dreading the holidays?  Happy Enough Holidays is an interactive workshop hosted by Heather Ross and Beth Syverson on Tuesday, November 14th, 4:30 -6:00 pm PST / 7:30 - 9:00 pm EST $20 for a 90-minute interactive workshop.  Here's What You Get:     A Supportive Immersive Experience: Curate your holiday...

In a world full of responsibilities and societal expectations you may find that instead of the self-discovery and empowerment you crave, you're left feeling disconnected and unseen. It's all too common for women to lose themselves in their various life roles, especially under the immense pressure of helping a child struggling with substance use. Yet, this journey of being lost can often se...

Heather and Pam Lanhart from Thrive Family Recovery Resources dive deep into a topic that's often misunderstood in the world of recovery: ambivalence. It can be one of the most challenging aspects that families face when dealing with a loved one's journey towards change. Ambivalence is complex but often oversimplified and stigmatized which leads to shame, blame, and labeling. Open and hone...

Living your life fully and wholeheartedly even when you're in a challenging place. That's the focus of part 2 of Heather's conversation with Barb Klein, Family Recovery Coach and the Author of  111 Invitations Step Into the Full Richness of Life. Topics covered in this episode: How not to abandon yourself Honoring yourself Cultivating a heart that can hold it all The importance of dail...

Author of 111 Invitations Step Into the Full Richness of Life and Family Recovery Coach Barb Klein shares her experience loving and supporting her son Nate through his struggles with substances and an eating disorder for over 13 years. She shares how it’s important to live your life fully and independent of your child’s experience and find peace and possibility beyond the pain. Topics covered in t...