Journey to Freedom
Starts 12 February 2022
Family Support Programme
We know that loved ones of those suffering from addiction need support almost as much as the sufferers themselves. The Cedars offers a unique Family Support Programme to facilitate this. Family members become frustrated with a repetitive cycle where the abnormal has become normal – leading to feelings of loneliness, hopelessness and desperation.
Often, the first step to a solution for all concerned is an understanding of the disease of addiction, and a concrete plan of action for the family and the addict.

Modules and costs
12/2
6-8pm
Addiction Theory 1
- Is it an illness or a choice?
- Characteristics and symptoms.
- Criteria for abuse, dependence and addiction.
- Types of abused drugs.
- Drug use stages.
- Treatment options.
19/2
6-8pm
Addiction Theory 2
- Stages of Change Model.
- Detoxification.
- Recovery options for the addict.
- Stages of Recovery.
- Tools and solutions for sustainable recovery.
26/2
6-8pm
Family Illness
- Why is addiction a family illness?
- Common symptoms and effects on the family unit.
- Am I affected if I don’t abuse substances?
- Tools and support structures for the family.
To best understand Addiction Theory, it is strongly suggested to attend Session 1 and 2 of the series.
2/3
6-8pm
Co-Dependency
- Do you put the needs of others over your own personal needs?
- Do you put all your energy in to helping others?
- Are you consumed with getting the addict or alcoholic to stop drinking or using drugs?
9/3
6-8pm
Communication
- Say what you mean and mean what you say.
- Identify specific communication problems.
19/3
6-8pm
Enabling
- Do I enable?
- Why is enabling harmful to an addict or alcoholic?
- How do I stop enabling?
23/3
6-8pm
Boundaries
- What is a boundary?
- Symptoms of ignored boundaries.
- Healthy boundary setting.
- Benefits of boundary setting.
- Tools and guidelines for setting effective boundaries
2/4
6-8pm
Detachment
- What is detachment and why is it so difficult to apply to the addict or alcoholic?
- How to not create or react to a crisis.
- Recognise and stop enabling behaviour.
- Learn how to prioritise your own needs.