The First Responder Families Podcast: Finding the Words: How to Act When it Feels Like There's Nothing You can Say or Do

Welcome back to The First Responder Families Podcast - Hosted by Ivona Bhahda. She is the Director of Family Services for FHE Health. 

This podcast focuses on the health and wellness of families who support the brave men and women who serve our communities and our country. FHE Health is a Nationally Recognized healthcare institution that delivers quality, medically integrated personalized treatment for those suffering from Behavioral Health Disorders. We are located in Deerfield Beach, Florida. We are proud to ethically serve the South Florida community as well as the nation with our healthcare services. We specialize in addictive disorders and other behavioral health diagnoses such as mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and traumatic disorders. 

https://fherehab.com/services/first-responders/ 

Struggling? FHE Health is here to help. Please call: 833.685.7536

In this episode, Ivona hosts a panel discussion with Joi Honer, Director of Alumni Services at FHE Health, and Kathleen Strain, Partnership to End Addiction.

In this episode, we explore the power of communication when supporting a loved one facing substance use or mental health challenges. Our expert panelists discuss Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT)—a proven approach that equips families with tools to foster constructive conversations, reduce conflict, and encourage treatment engagement.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Mastering Communication: How to approach sensitive conversations with compassion and intention.
✅ Active Listening: Techniques for truly hearing and understanding your loved one’s struggles.
✅ Expressing Feelings Constructively: Learning to share concerns without triggering defensiveness.
✅ Avoiding Judgment & Confrontation: Shifting from criticism to encouragement.
✅ The Power of Positive Reinforcement: How reinforcing positive behavior can guide someone toward recovery.

Resources Mentioned:

🔹 FHE Health - Alumni Services – Support network for individuals in recovery.
🔹 Partnership to End Addiction – Resources for families navigating addiction.
🔹 CRAFT Model – Evidence-based family training for effective support.
🔹 Podcast: Heart of the Matter with Elizabeth Vargas – Inspiring recovery stories from well-known figures.

🎧 Listen in and learn how the right words—delivered with empathy—can make all the difference

Until next time, 

- Ivona