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What if everything you thought you knew about addiction recovery was wrong? In this eye-opening episode, addiction interventionist Matt Brown tackles five crucial questions that families repeatedly ask when trying to help a loved one struggling with substance use.

The myth of "rock bottom" gets thoroughly debunked as Matt explains why waiting for someone to hit their lowest point before offering help is not only unnecessary but potentially dangerous. "Rock bottom is really wherever we want to stop digging," he shares, revealing how family organization and education can create earlier opportunities for recovery.

Matt offers profound insight into the courage required to set and maintain boundaries with addicted loved ones. Rather than boundaries established from anger (which dissolve when the anger subsides), effective boundaries stem from love and require support systems to withstand the inevitable guilt and pressure that follows. His practical advice for families navigating this emotional minefield provides real hope for those feeling trapped in enabling cycles.

Perhaps most illuminating is Matt's exploration of why "doing it on your own" rarely works for addiction recovery. He expertly explains how substance use isn't actually the problem but rather an attempt to solve deeper issues like untreated mental health conditions, trauma, grief, or abandonment. This fundamental misunderstanding leads many down failed paths of repeated attempts at solo recovery.

For families seeking treatment options, Matt provides clear warning signs of problematic treatment centers and essential questions to ask before committing. His insider perspective on family programming, communication protocols, and quality clinical care offers a roadmap through the often confusing treatment landscape.

The episode concludes with thoughtful reflections on recovery psychology, including why non-alcoholic substitutes might pose hidden risks for those in sobriety. "It's really about staying as far away from the ledge as possible, not seeing how close to the ledge I can get without falling over."

Join the free Families in Crisis support calls every Monday and Thursday at 8pm Eastern. Email your questions for future episodes to matt@partywreckers.com.

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Join us Every Thursday Night at 8:00 EST/5:00PST for a FREE family support group. Register at the following link to get the zoom information sent to you: Family Support Meeting

About our sponsor(s):

Intervention on Call is on online platform that allows families and support systems to get immediate coaching and direction from a professional interventionist. While a professional intervention can be a powerful experience for change, not every family needs a professionally led intervention. For families who either don't need or can't afford a professional intervention, we can help. Hour sessions are $150.

Therapy is a very important way to take care of your mental health. This can happen from the comfort of your own home or office. If you need therapy and want to get a discount on your first month of services please try Better Help.

If you want to know more about the host's private practice please visit:
Matt Brown: Freedom Interventions

Follow the host on TikTok
Matt: @mattbrowninterventionist


If you have a question that we can answer on the show, please email us at matt@partywreckers.com