by Christopher Kennedy Lawford
First published 2016
Addiction wreaks havoc on relationships, but walking away may not be the answer. Christopher Kennedy Lawford and psychotherapist Beverly Engel argue against the common belief that staying with an addicted partner enables their destructive habits. They contend that love itself can become a powerful tool in recovery rather than an obstacle. The authors examine recent research on addiction and codependency, rejecting the view that these are diseases or character flaws. Instead, they trace these patterns to underlying trauma and shame. The book provides concrete techniques for partners who want to support recovery without sacrificing their own wellbeing. Lawford and Engel show how to combat shame through compassionate connection while maintaining healthy boundaries. They offer strategies for improving relationships and encouraging treatment, whether the addicted partner has already begun recovery or remains in denial. The approach honors both partners' needs and recognizes that love, properly channeled, can heal rather than harm.
Genres: family, psychology, addiction, relationships, non-fiction, health
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, healing
232 pages · Paperback · BenBella Books
Content warnings: addiction, substance-abuse