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Under Addiction’s Control
Finding Hope Family Support Groups
Written By
Finding Hope Team
Under Addiction’s Control
Addiction controls the person and ALL those around.
I recently heard someone share that statement with me, and I believe it to be 100% true. When addiction hits our homes, it not only controls the one struggling with substances but also those who love that person.
That statement reminds me of a marionette. The person controlling the strings above is the addiction, and the puppets below are the ones impacted by the addiction: family and friends. Our lives become consumed and dictated by addiction. Addiction tells us what to do, what not to do, how we should act, how we should not act, how we should feel, how we should not feel, where we should be, and where we should not be. The list goes on and on.
To get out from under addiction’s control, we must cut the strings. A marionette cannot be controlled without strings.
But how do we cut the strings?
First, we have to recognize and acknowledge that we are being controlled by addiction. Then, we must do the hard thing and detach ourselves from it (i.e. cut the strings). We also need to set boundaries that protect us financially, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually (If I feel… then I will), as well as seek professional counseling or therapy. Don’t be afraid to say you need help!
Remember, you can do hard things and give yourself grace. Cry if you need to. Scream if you need to. Do what you need to do. And continue to stay connected to a local or Zoom Finding Hope group.
“May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!” Psalm 29:11
