Support Group for Families Affected by Addiction and Mental Health Issues
Launch of Support Group at The Virtue Center Aims to Assist Families Managing Addiction and Mental Health Challenges
In an effort to provide essential support to those affected by a loved one’s addiction or mental health issues, The Virtue Center in Norman, Oklahoma, is set to launch an innovative eight-week support group, named Family Pathways. This program is designed specifically for family members and close friends, offering tools and strategies to foster their own well-being while supporting their loved ones.
This initiative comes at a crucial time when the emotional toll on caregivers is often overlooked in the discussion surrounding addiction and mental health. According to recent studies, individuals close to those struggling with these challenges frequently face feelings of anxiety, isolation, and confusion. Recognizing this gap in support, The Virtue Center’s group aims to address these complex emotional landscapes.
Open to anyone over the age of 18 and offered free of charge, the Family Pathways program will commence on March 6 and will be held every Thursday at 5:30 PM. Led by Bayli Robertson, a trained therapist and facilitator, each 90-minute session is designed to foster a safe environment for participants. The curriculum will cover a range of vital topics, including motivation, effective communication techniques, setting healthy boundaries, and self-care strategies. These topics will be instrumental in equipping participants with the necessary skills to navigate their unique situations.
“The impact of addiction and mental health challenges extends beyond the individuals directly affected. Family members often bear an immense burden, yet their needs for support remain largely unmet,” Robertson stated. “The Family Pathways group creates a space where caregivers can find solace and understanding, enabling them to prioritize their own mental health while providing chronic support for their loved ones.”
Robertson is particularly enthusiastic about discussing self-care practices with participants, emphasizing the importance of caregiver well-being. “It’s a challenging position to be in when you witness someone you care about struggle — wanting to help while also maintaining your own mental health can be a delicate balance,” she noted. The program seeks to provide participants with practical tools to help establish boundaries and carve out personal time amidst their caregiving responsibilities.
Those interested in joining this vital support network can obtain further information by contacting The Virtue Center at (405) 321-0022 or by registering directly on their website. This initiative not only represents a commitment to enhancing the well-being of caregivers but also aims to foster a sense of community among those who share similar experiences.
This report underscores the necessity for such initiatives in understanding the multifaceted nature of mental health and addiction, as well as the importance of supporting not only those directly affected by these issues but also their families and friends.
