Rebuilding What Addiction Broke: A Mother's Journey to Reconnection

Rebuilding What Addiction Broke: A Conversation with Janice Johnson DowdIn this powerful episode of the Confident Sober Women podcast, we're joined by Janice Johnson Dowd, author of "Rebuilding Relationships in Recovery." As a retired social worker with 12 years of sobriety and a mother of four, Janice shares her journey from functioning alcoholic to recovery advocate with remarkable candor.Episode Highlights:Janice's background working in addiction treatment centers before her own alcoholism developed in her 40sThe complex dynamics of balancing motherhood, career, and self-care that contributed to her drinkingHer experience with inpatient treatment and how focusing exclusively on recovery actually damaged family relationshipsThe challenging path of repairing relationships with her four children (ages 13-21 at the time of her treatment)Why validation, accountability, and persistent communication are crucial for family healingThe importance of finding balance between recovery work and family reconnectionHow to effectively listen to and validate different family members' experiencesWhy staying sober is the foundation for rebuilding trust, but isn't enough on its ownPractical Takeaways:Take accountability for your actions and validate others' perspectives, even when they differ from yoursPractice deep listening without immediate reactions, especially with adolescents and young adultsPersist in healing efforts even when family therapy or initial conversations feel uncomfortable or unsuccessfulRecognize developmental differences in how children process a parent's addiction and recoveryFind balance between recovery work and family engagementTake advantage of small moments for connection and organic healing conversationsGet support from sponsors, therapists, and recovery peers when navigating challenging family situationsJanice emphasizes that repair is possible even after significant damage to relationships. Her story offers hope to those struggling with similar challenges and provides practical guidance for rebuilding what addiction has broken.Connect with Janice:Book: "Rebuilding Relationships in Recovery" by Janice V. Johnson DowdWebsite: janicejohnsondowd.comInstagram: @parenting_inn_recoveryWhether you're in recovery yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode provides valuable insights into the complex journey of family healing after addiction.Support the showDon’t forget to subscribe, rate & share this episode with a sober woman or someone suffering from anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems and negative thought patterns who needs to hear she is not alone. Oh, and by the way, if you didn’t know, my remote Neurofeedback Therapy program is up and running. Learn more here! Learn more about EMDR therapy, EMDR Intensives and Remote Neurofeedback.And if you haven't read my memoir, grab a copy of Recovering in Recovery: The Life-Changing Joy of Sobriety wherever books are sold.