"Rebuilding Relationships in Recovery - How to Connect with Family and Close Friends After Active Alcoholism and Addiction--With science-based assessment tools and practices by Janice V. Johnson Dowd," is a helpful guide for anyone wanting to heal and improve their relationships after overcoming addiction. It combines personal stories, practical tips, and emotional support, making it a valuable read for those committed to personal growth and recovery. Janice highlights the importance of patience, self-awareness, and resilience, providing a hopeful path for dealing with the challenges of repairing relationships and growing as a person during the recovery process.

Extreme alcoholism and drug use pose significant dangers to an individual's life, affecting physical health, mental well-being, and relationships. Prolonged substance abuse can lead to severe health issues such as liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological damage, with extreme alcoholism potentially resulting in liver cirrhosis or alcohol poisoning, both of which can be fatal. Drug use also carries risks like overdose, infectious diseases from needle sharing, and long-term cognitive impairment. These health consequences diminish quality of life and can lead to premature death. Additionally, extreme substance abuse disrupts personal relationships and social connections, often isolating individuals from family and friends, which fosters a cycle of loneliness and despair. Erratic behavior can lead to conflicts and strained relationships, further exacerbating feelings of isolation. Furthermore, addiction can negatively impact employment and financial stability, making it difficult to maintain a job or meet responsibilities.

Rebuilding relationships with family and society after attending a rehab center is essential for long-term recovery and overall well-being, as addiction often strains these connections and leads to feelings of isolation. Actively restoring these relationships helps create a supportive network that encourages healing and personal growth, with family members providing vital encouragement, understanding, and accountability. Reestablishing trust and communication can repair the damage caused by addiction and foster a nurturing environment. Additionally, reintegrating into society through community activities and support groups helps individuals regain a sense of belonging and purpose, enhances emotional support, and creates opportunities for personal and professional growth. Ultimately, rebuilding these relationships is a crucial part of recovery, contributing to lasting success and fulfillment in life.

This book is essential for anyone trying to repair and rebuild their relationships during recovery. It is a beautifully written guide that helps readers navigate the broken connections often caused by addiction. Janice speaks with kindness and honesty, without judgment. She shares practical steps for healing and reconciling, along with her own personal experiences. Her encouraging and relatable style offers hope to those who may feel overwhelmed by the challenges ahead. This book is a valuable resource for the sobriety community, providing both knowledge and inspiration on a topic that is often overlooked.

"Rebuilding Relationships in Recovery" is the most important book I’ve ever read about addiction and how to repair relationships while staying sober. Janice Dowd provides many helpful strategies for people fighting this disease as they work to reclaim their lives. She describes the steps and feelings that both survivors and their family members go through during the healing process. I will definitely recommend this book to friends and colleagues, especially those who are struggling with unresolved grief and want a resource to help them understand their pain and reconnect with loved ones during their recovery.

Thanks to Netgalley for providing the ARC copy!