This Father’s Day, Let’s Celebrate Dads Who Choose Recovery

“She did not stand alone, but what stood behind her, the most potent moral force in her life, was the love of her father.”

– Harper Lee, Go Set a Watchman

On the third Sunday of June, a day is set in which we can show fathers the love they deserve. For millions of fathers around the world, a struggle between recovery and relapse is waging and Father’s Day may be your chance to reinforce their journey of sobriety.

This year, Father’s Day falls on June 15th, so if your father is recovering from substance abuse, use some of our activities to show him the love he may have missed out on.

The impact of a father’s drug use on a child

It is difficult to understate the impact that either parent has on their children. Like the way an ocean carves the shape of the shore, every facet of a child’s personality, behaviours, belief systems, diet, interests and worldly outlook is shaped by their parent.

The extent of this influence does not stop at addictions either. In fact, research shows that even without external influences, 40% to 60% of a person’s susceptibility to developing an addiction is comprised of genetic factors. These genes are passed from parent to child and can hold significant sway on addiction-forming, especially during adolescence.

While either parent’s alcohol or drug addiction can have devastating consequences for a child, several sources suggest that drug-abusing fathers receive less attention when compared to research on motherhood and the same issues.

A teenager who grows up with parents who are addicts is more likely to suffer. Developing in a household where smoking is allowed, where powders are within arm’s reach, or shelves are stocked with bottles of alcohol will naturally create different ideas on what is normal to see at home. Yet, some father-specific research highlights how different substance addictions may be more dangerous than others. The report from the University of Buffalo states that being raised by a father who is addicted to drugs is even more harmful to the child’s mental health than being raised by a father who is an alcoholic.

Whether a parent is drunk or under the influence of another substance, the lasting ramifications on children of addicted parents should not be overlooked.

How to celebrate a sober Father’s Day

The myriad reasons that lead a person, specifically a father, to drug dependency may be too long to list. A person of any gender who faces difficult times can turn to alcohol or drugs as a form of temporary escape, euphoric relief, or tragic curiosity.

Yet, the wellspring of hope and the desire for change that many recovering fathers show can be just as inexhaustible. Millions of fathers see their child as the final and ultimate reason for change, as a shining beacon of hope that stops them from getting high or drunk.

Fathers who strive toward complete sobriety serve as an inspiration this Father’s Day, so show love to your father, or just your father figure, this June 15th:

Make Dad the star of the show

On June 15th, make an effort to let Dad know that he is loved. Tragically, there are many men out there who go for years, sometimes their whole lives, without being told just how much love they deserve. If your father has been your pillar of support throughout your life, plan a day that makes him feel cherished.

Maybe your dad always loved barbequing. June gives us the warmest (and hopefully the driest) time of year, so think about whether you can host a grill out in the garden. Try other DIY projects with him as he’d love to let you know how things are built. Strive to recall what he’s truly passionate about and bring them into the day, while ensuring no activities focus on drinking or using a substance. Your gestures will go a long way!

Our final message this Father’s Day

We’ve highlighted some ways that you can show love this Father’s Day. We know that not everyone out there still has their father and not all fathers out there still have their children. Our heart is with you for this special day.

For any fathers out there who are fighting a battle with drug or alcohol addiction, this Father’s Day, please remember: children don’t need a perfect day, they just need a present one.

Your main inspiration to enter recovery may have been for your children or for another loved one. You know that when you’re at your healthiest, strongest and most sober, you are better able to support them, in body, mind and spirit. We know you have what it takes to remain substance-free and to give your child the future you dreamed of when you were young.

I need help this Father’s Day

At UKAT, we understand that overcoming alcohol and drug addiction is a deeply personal journey, but it doesn’t have to be faced alone. If you’re a father striving for sobriety or someone who wants to support your father, our compassionate and experienced team is here for you.

We provide tailored treatment programmes that include medical detox, one-to-one counselling, family therapy and comprehensive aftercare support to help maintain lasting recovery. Your health, happiness and family relationships deserve the best chance possible.

Take the first step towards a healthier, happier life today. Reach out to UKAT and let this Father’s Day mark the beginning of your journey towards lasting recovery.