The Daybreak Project
Caring for someone who struggles with substance use is hard. We understand and provide support.
What is The Daybreak Project?
The Daybreak Project is a gathering of people whose lives have been affected by someone’s use or misuse of substances. We come together to share our experiences, struggles, and successes as we navigate the many challenges we face due to another’s substance use.
The Daybreak Project is designed for friends and family members, not for those struggling with addiction. We offer a space that prioritizes anonymity and confidentiality. Join us at one of our online gatherings and participate only as much as you feel comfortable. You won't be forced to participate or singled out if you prefer to just listen. There’s no membership, no fees, nothing to sign, and no personal information required.
We occasionally invite professionals to address specific needs based on group requests. Previous speakers have included a police officer, physician, trauma therapist, family therapist, clergy member, and life coach.
Although it may have taken time for your loved one's substance use to become a significant issue, you eventually realize the need for change. Now, the challenge of navigating the personal, legal, physical, societal, and relational consequences falls squarely on your shoulders. Join us for a meeting for support.
When we meet
Meetings are held the 4th Wednesday of the month from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Please connect here to request an invite to our online meeting.
How it Began
In 2017, Jeff Jirschele and Mary Harp-Jirschele started The Daybreak Project to help those supporting loved ones with substance use disorder. Addiction harms not only the individual struggling with substance abuse but also their family and friends. Denial, stigmatization, and silence can keep these challenges hidden The Daybreak Project encourages support and openness, offering resources for friends and family members.
Caring for someone
Caring about someone who struggles with substance abuse is indeed incredibly challenging. It often involves a mix of emotions including worry, frustration, and heartache. Here are a few key points that might help in managing this difficult situation:
Understanding and Empathy
- Educate Yourself: Learn about substance abuse and addiction to understand what the person is going through. This can help you empathize with their struggles.
- Listen Actively: Show that you are there to support them by listening without judgment. Sometimes, people just need to feel heard and understood.
Setting Boundaries
- Establish Boundaries: It’s important to set clear boundaries to protect your own well-being. This might include limiting the amount of time you spend with the person if their behavior becomes harmful to you.
- Communicate Clearly: Make sure the person understands your boundaries and why they are necessary. This communication needs to be firm but compassionate.
Support and Resources
- Encourage Professional Help: Suggest that they seek help from professionals such as therapists, counselors, or support groups. Offer to help them find resources or accompany them to appointments if they are open to it.
- Join Support Groups: Consider joining a support group for families and friends of people with substance abuse issues. These groups can provide valuable support and advice from others who are in similar situations.
Self-Care
- Take Care of Yourself: Caring for someone with substance abuse issues can be draining. Make sure to take time for self-care and seek support for yourself when needed.
- Seek Therapy: Talking to a therapist can help you process your emotions and develop strategies for coping with the stress and emotional burden.
Offering Hope and Encouragement
- Be Encouraging: Offer hope and encouragement, letting the person know that recovery is possible. Celebrate small victories and progress along the way.
- Be Patient: Recovery from substance abuse is often a long and difficult journey with many ups and downs. Patience and perseverance are crucial.
Remember, you cannot control someone else's actions, but you can control how you respond and take care of yourself. Balancing compassion for the person struggling with substance abuse and maintaining your own mental health is key.