Ep 3. We're Alcoholics, but We're Great Parents
- September 12, 2018
In season 16 episode 3 of the Dr. Phil Show titled "We're alcoholics, but we're great parents," Dr. Phil tackles the sensitive topic of alcoholism and parenting. The episode features parents who struggle with alcohol addiction and how it affects their ability to raise their children.
The show begins with a family of five who all struggle with alcohol abuse. The couple agrees that they use alcohol as a way to cope with stress, and their parenting suffers as a result. The parents often argue while drunk, leaving their children feeling scared and insecure. The children have also been forced to care for themselves while their parents are drunk, and they worry about their parents' safety when they pass out from drinking.
Dr. Phil points out that their children are at risk of seeing alcohol as an acceptable way to cope with stress or emotions. He helps the parents see that their addiction is not only affecting their parenting, but it's also impacting their health and the well-being of their entire family.
The second family featured on the show is a mother and her adult son who both struggle with alcoholism. The son admits that he learned to drink from his mother, and she regrets not being a better role model for her children. Both the mother and son agree that their addiction has caused them to make irresponsible decisions, including drinking and driving. The son has also lost jobs because of his addiction, making it difficult for him to support himself and his family.
Dr. Phil encourages the mother and son to seek help and emphasizes that addiction is a family disease that affects everyone. He assures them that recovery is possible with support and his team will help them find the resources they need to overcome their addiction.
The episode also features a psychologist who specializes in addiction and parenting. She shares the impact that addiction has on the brain and how it can affect decision-making and emotions. She also provides tips for parents who are struggling with addiction and how they can still be present for their children.
Dr. Phil ends the episode by urging those who struggle with addiction to seek help and not be ashamed to ask for it. He reinforces that being a great parent means being present for your children and providing a safe and stable environment for them to grow up in.
Overall, the episode "We're alcoholics, but we're great parents" is an important conversation about addiction and parenting. It sheds light on the struggles many families face when dealing with addiction and the impact it has on children. Dr. Phil provides helpful insights and resources for those who are ready to seek help and begin the journey towards recovery.
