Reframing Addiction: A Personal Story of Compassion & Healing with Maria del Carmen Blanco Fernandez

Have you ever felt completely overwhelmed by a loved one's addiction, unsure how to help or where to turn? Join me, Martha Hamilton, as I sit down with my aunt, Maria del Carmen Blanco Fernandez, a DBT counselor and author, to share her gripping and personal story of navigating her son's 70-hour psychotic episode triggered by marijuana. Maria's experiences highlight the transformative power of empathy, acceptance, and informed support, as she discusses the importance of recognizing addiction as a brain disease and the critical role family and professional help play in recovery.
Maria and I explore the misconceptions surrounding addiction, emphasizing the need to view it as an illness akin to cancer or diabetes, and the power of unconditional love and compassion. Maria's journey underscores the necessity of seeking professional help and the emotional impact of communicating in one's native language, particularly through her resources in Spanish. Together, we encourage listeners to let go of shame and guilt and advocate for the best possible treatment for their loved ones. Don't miss this inspiring conversation-connect with Maria on social media and her website, Creciendo Juntosonline, for further support and resources.