Parenting Through Addiction: My Journey with OPLM
Parenting is a journey filled with both love and challenges. When addiction entered our family’s life, it reshaped everything in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I’m Michele Blumenthal, and as the mother of a son battling addiction, I’ve experienced a path of heartbreak, growth, and healing. Throughout this process, one community has been a consistent source of support and strength: Other Parents Like Me (OPLM).
The Power of Support in Addiction Recovery
When my son’s struggles with substance use and mental health became evident, I felt overwhelmed with fear and helplessness. Watching him face moments of despair—including suicide attempts—was devastating. As much as I wanted to be his anchor, I quickly realized I couldn’t do it alone. I needed help and understanding not just for him, but for me as well.
Our journey toward healing began when my son entered a 90-day treatment program in Montana. During this time, I joined Al-Anon, which introduced me to tools for my own recovery. Once he transitioned into the In Balance continuum, I found OPLM. This community of parents facing similar challenges became a lifeline. OPLM provided a safe space for me to speak openly, find guidance, and connect with others. It reminded me I wasn’t alone, offering the emotional support I needed during some of the darkest times in my life.
Personal Growth Through Healing
With OPLM’s support, I started focusing on my own wellness. I explored tools like Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP), hypnosis, meditation, and journaling to work through my emotional patterns. These tools helped me shift from anxiety and self-doubt to calm and clarity. One transformative lesson I learned was the power of self-soothing. As I always say, “Hypnosis is really just being in a relaxed state.” Learning to reframe limiting beliefs and find peace within myself gave me the strength to show up for my son.
Celebrating Our Family’s Progress
Today, my son is thriving. After graduating from In Balance, he’s now living in sober living, holding a job, and excelling academically. He’s a senior in high school, having skipped his junior year, and has been accepted into several colleges—including my alma mater, The Ohio State University. His determination and progress inspire me every day.
Reflecting on our journey, I see how addiction brought our family closer together. My son’s recovery became a catalyst for growth and healing, reigniting unity and purpose in our family, for which I am deeply grateful.
How OPLM Continues to Impact My Life
OPLM continues to play an integral role in my personal wellness and work. The experiences, resources, and encouragement I’ve gained from this community shape how I face challenges and support others. By connecting with parents who understand the complexities of parenting a child with addiction, I’ve gained perspectives that deepen my compassion and resilience.
From Healing to Helping: Empowering Others
While my personal growth began with my need for healing, it ultimately inspired me to create M3: Mind and Motion with Michele. My approach integrates tools like NLP, hypnosis, and fitness to empower others to overcome their challenges. My work is deeply influenced by the lessons I’ve learned through OPLM: the power of community, the importance of self-care, and the belief that transformation is possible.
A Message to Other Parents Facing Addiction
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through my journey, it’s that you don’t have to navigate this path alone. Communities like OPLM offer the understanding, guidance, and connection that can make all the difference. My story isn’t just about overcoming challenges—it’s about finding hope and strength through the support of others.
To any parent facing similar struggles, I encourage you to lean on the power of community. Whether through OPLM or another group, there’s strength in sharing your journey with others who truly understand.
Michele Blumenthal is the founder of M3: Mind and Motion with Michele, based in Jacksonville, North Carolina. Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Michele made a bold move at 52 to reset her life. A mom to two children, Arrie, a merchandiser for Abercrombie, and Zach, a senior in high school living in In Balance’s Sober Living community, Michele transitioned from a career as a fitness and nutrition coach to a mindset coach. She specializes in NeuroLinguistic Programming, Time Therapy, and Hypnotherapy, and is passionate about helping clients transform their behavior patterns to achieve physical and emotional wellness. You can reach out directly to Michele at micheledblumenthal@gmail.com.
