"A lawyer turned therapist examines the chaos many families endure when addiction disrupts their lives. Based in part on her own family's journey, Van Vechten explains the science of addiction, the theory of treatment, and the Twelve-Step model of recovery, providing sensible information and tips for reasoned action in support of a loved one while fostering personal growth and recovery."--Publisher's description.

Addiction is a disease, not a matter of choice -- Drugs of abuse and their effects on the body -- Debunking the myths: the facts about marijuana -- The criteria for diagnosis of addictive disorders -- Understanding risk factors and accepting that causation is 'no fault' -- Treatment: how and why it works -- What recovery means and how it can be sustained -- Obstacles to recovery, and relapse -- The parallel roads to recovery for the addicted and those who love them -- How to facilitate your own recovery -- Making reasoned decisions to facilitate treatment -- Taking action to live comfortably with the recovering addict -- Conclusion: the search for peace and serenity.