In this episode of 5 FAQs by EHN Canada, we sit down with Susan Raphael, author of What’s Wrong with My Teen?, to explore how addiction and mental health challenges affect the entire family system. Drawing on her expertise and lived experience, Susan offers compassionate insights into the complex emotions, communication struggles, and healing opportunities that arise when a teen is in crisis. From breaking down myths about “tough love” to finding balance between support and self-care, this conversation helps families move from fear and frustration toward understanding and recovery.

IN THIS EPISODE, WE WILL ANSWER:

• What can addiction or mental health concerns look like in teenagers?
• How can parents support a teen’s recovery without slipping into “tough-love” or enabling behaviors? What myths should parents unlearn?
• What is the best way to talk to a teen about substance use concerns without triggering defensiveness?
• How can the whole family heal alongside a teen in recovery? What’s the role of family therapy and joint activities?
• How does substance use and recovery affect a teen’s education and friendships, and what can be done to support them socially and academically?

Learn more about the exceptional work that Susan does here: https://www.sustainablerecovery.ca/

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