The Family Addiction Support is set to host a free Shared Learning & Networking Event on Wednesday the 31st of May from 10am until 1:15pm at the Hotel Kilmore in Cavan. The aim of the event is to create awareness of the support services provided by FASN across Cavan and Monaghan for family members whose loved one's are experiencing addiction and substance misuse issues.
Guest speakers on the day include Senator Frances Black of the Rise Foundation; Ed Sipler, Health Development Specialist at South Eastern Trust; Darren Butler, co-ordinator of the Irish Bishops Drugs Initiative; and Siobhan Maher, Co-Ordinator of Drug Related Intimidation & Violence Engagement (DRIVE).
Speaking to Northern Sound, Gwen McKenna, FASN Family Support Specialist, said that living with someone that has an addiction is a "lonely and hard" place to be. She added that the stigma associated with addiction is "horrendous" and those who do attend Wednesday's event will show great courage and strength of character.
"Battling a substance use disorder to alcohol or drugs is viewed by many as a personal experience. Because harmful substances have devastating effects on the user, many may not take into consideration the other people involved. Spouses, children, parents, and other loved ones will all be impacted by the way addiction affects the family."
"The effects of drug or alcohol misuse and addiction can cause once peaceful, loving homes to become divided by the strain. Conflict becomes normal, trust is eroded and communication becomes very difficult.
"Family members may witness their loved one's behaviour and appearance change until they become unrecognisable. Family members often feel like powerless bystanders as they watch their loved ones' lives fall apart.
"This can cause family members themselves to endure severe trauma and develop unhealthy coping mechanisms in response to what feels like a helpless situation to be in," said Gwen.
