Communication
What is one way to ensure that you and your partner/friend are communicating effectively?
Be honest, listen, ask questions
Some examples of damaging behaviors addicted people engage in include:
Lying, Stealing, Engaging in violence, Breaking the law, Saying hurtful things, Being unfaithful.
Is conflict the same thing as fighting?
No. Conflict is a clash or disagreement.
What are some indicators of healthy relationships?
Respect, trust, honesty, and communication
What is something you should notice or pay attention to when having a conversation with your partner/friend?
Nonverbal communication
What is Codependency?
an emotional and behavioral condition that influences a person's ability to have a healthy, mutually satisfying relationship. People with codependency are often in relationships that are one-sided, emotionally destructive, and dysfunctional.
What is one unhealthy way to engage in conflict?
Yelling, shouting, blaming, or hitting
Is it healthy to be separately involved in activities or organizations outside of your relationship?
Yes!
What are some problems that might occur due to lack of communication?
arguing, mis-interpretation, confusion, assuming
Who does Addiction affect?
Everyone in the user's life.
What is one way you can avoid making your partner/friend defensive when talking about a difficult issue?
Use "I" statements, talk about your own feelings, try to understand where the other person is coming from, avoid accusing the other person
What is something you can do to ensure that you are taking care of yourself and keeping your sanity in a relationship?
Keep balance in your life (ex: between a relationship, friends, family, school/classes, work, and other activities)
What are some signs that you are not communicating effectively with your partner/friend?
Not feeling comfortable or being afraid to express wants, needs, fears, etc.., or dreading/avoiding conversations about difficult topics
What is enabling?
Enabling occurs when another person, often a codependent, removes the natural consequences of the addict’s behavior, thereby aiding in the continuance of his or her drug use.
What is something you can do to cool down during a disagreement?
Take a time-out from the disagreement or limit your discussion time
You start off with a solid foundation for a healthy relationship with your partner/friend. What is something that you can acknowledge that will help your relationship grow?
Discuss expectations, have realistic expectations, and realize that relationships and people change (so be flexible!)
What is the key to many successful relationships that helps to navigate conflict and happy times?
Communication
True or False. Is repairing relationships once you are in recovery easy?
False. Repairing relationships while in recovery requires hard work and commitment.
What are some things that can turn a conflict into a fight?
Making threats, giving ultimatums (ex: Do this, or else!), accusing without listening, not being willing to apologize or take the blame, getting physical with your partner/friend
What kind of listener should you aim to be?
Active Listener