How to Cope

How to Cope is a seven-session, 17.5-hour course for family and friends impacted by a loved one's addiction to alcohol or drugs. Symptoms for family members impacted by a loved one's addiction may include severe weight loss/gain, mood swings, insomnia, isolation from family and friends, and a higher risk for developing a substance abuse disorder and/or a mental health disorder. The program uses an evidence-based curriculum recognized by the National Prevention Network and the National Association of State Alcohol/Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD), and received a National Exemplary Award for Innovative Substance Abuse Prevention Programs in 2008. Presented by trained facilitators, the How to Cope curriculum addresses:

1. Addiction as a disease recognized by the American Medical Association, National Association of Social Workers, and American Psychological Association
2. The physical, psychological and social effects of addiction on family members
3. Enabling behaviors
4. Construction of a personal plan of action for restoring balance and healthy lifestyle.

The goal of How to Cope is to help adults impacted by a loved one's substance abuse create a balanced and healthy life, even if their loved one continues to abuse substances.

Over 100 adults impacted by a loved one's addiction to alcohol or drugs participated in How to Cope in 2013, with 87% showing increased knowledge of the harmful effects and other drugs and 100% completing an action plan.

In 2013, 107 adults attended How to Cope. Upon completion of the program, 87% showed an increased knowledge of the harmful effects of alcohol and other drugs, and 100% completed an action plan.