Thriving Not Just Surviving: Navigating Addiction and Family Healing featuring David Hampton

In this episode of Thrive While Loving an Addict, host KL Wells welcomes David Hampton, a certified professional recovery coach, author, and speaker from Tennessee. Drawing on his extensive experience in addiction recovery and family support, David joins KL for a candid conversation about the realities families face when a loved one struggles with substance use disorder. Together, they explore the complexities of recovery, the importance of understanding each individual’s story, and the vital need for personal growth and supportive systems. The episode focuses on practical wisdom for maintaining emotional well-being and boundaries while supporting loved ones through their journey.

Key Discussion Points:

• The disruptive nature of sobriety and how it impacts the entire family system
• Shifting from “fixing” the addicted loved one to understanding everyone’s role in the family dynamic
• The importance of hearing the individual’s story rather than viewing them as a problem to solve
• Navigating shame, stigma, and secrecy within families facing addiction
• The concept of loving with boundaries versus “tough love”
• The emotional toll on loved ones and the necessity of self-care and personal joy
• Relapse as a part of the recovery journey and managing expectations
• The evolving nature of personal and family narratives around addiction and healing

Some Questions I Ask:

• What do families often misunderstand about the recovery process?
• How can loved ones support someone in recovery without losing themselves?
• Why is it important to see the addicted person as a “story to be heard” rather than a problem to solve?
• How do shame and stigma affect families dealing with addiction?
• What does healthy support look like, and how can boundaries be established compassionately?
• How can loved ones maintain their own emotional well-being during a family member’s addiction journey?
• What role does personal growth play for both the addicted individual and their family?

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• Why sobriety is inherently disruptive to family systems and how to navigate this change
• The significance of understanding and validating each person’s unique experience in the recovery process
• Practical strategies for setting and maintaining healthy boundaries with loved ones in active addiction
• The importance of self-care, joy, and permission to live fully—even amidst a loved one’s struggles
• How to reframe relapse as part of the recovery journey, not a failure
• Ways to move beyond shame and secrecy to foster open, authentic family conversations
• How personal and family narratives around addiction can evolve over time, leading to healing and growth

Resources:

David Hampton’s Books:

• Our Authentic Selves: Reflections on What We Believe and What We Wish We Believed – A 40-day reflection for those navigating faith and recovery.
• After the Miracle: Illusions Along the Path to Restoration – David’s personal journey through sobriety and family illness.

Connect with David Hampton:

• David Hampton’s Website
• Positive Sobriety Podcast

Community Support: