The old adage is true: addiction is a family disease. And as such, a family can play an essential role in a loved one’s treatment and recovery. As addiction can take a massive toll on a family’s wellbeing, getting help for yourself while the addict recovers (or doesn’t) is a must. Recovery begins when each person comprehends family dynamics, the impact of addiction, and how to form a supportive, caring connection. At Scottsdale Providence, we provide a safe environment that fosters change and healing relationships.
Signs of Addiction
Substance use usually affects everyone in a family, whether they know it or not. Some family members will be inclined to take on roles that protect the family or the addict, for example. Identifying if someone in your family is struggling with addiction may help to illuminate the dynamics and get the family on the road to recovery. Here are a few signs of addiction:
- Borrowing or spending money they don’t have
- Failure to fulfill work commitments or tasks
- Reduced interest in social or other activities
- An uptick in risky conduct, such as unsafe driving
- Sudden changes in weight, decreased energy, or other visible bodily changes
- Neglecting clothing, hygiene, and appearance
- Detachment from friends or family; becoming secretive about where they go
- Anger, despair, or paranoia
Different symptoms of use can be seen with marijuana, alcohol, prescription medicines, and other substances. Some of these symptoms can be caused by a variety of substances:
- Elated behavior
- Red eyes
- Coordination issues
- A reduction in cognition or comprehension
- Anxiety/Agitation
If your loved one is exhibiting any of these symptoms, knowing how to offer them support is vital to preserving a healthy relationship and boosting their chances of recovery.
Discussing Treatment with a Family Member
Talking to a loved one about your worries can help you get back on track. During the conversation, avoid using angry language or making allegations. Helping your loved one share their ideas and feelings regarding substance addiction and therapy in a non-judgmental environment is key.
If you don’t think you can start such a discussion without it escalating into an argument, call a well-reputed treatment center and make an appointment with a therapist. A staff member with experience in addiction and family therapy can help steer the conversation and offer treatment advice. Should your loved one decide to seek treatment, consider family counseling.
At the beginning of treatment, your loved one will rightly be focusing on their own recovery, including triggers, trauma, or underlying mental health issues that contributed to their addiction. During this time, they may decide to face these issues before starting therapy with their family. Don’t take this personally. Instead, take the time to address any issues, thoughts or roles you play in the family dynamics.
Once family therapy starts, you can discuss these topics with your loved one and the therapist. Focusing on your own recovery is integral to the healing process. Finding a supportive group of your own, such as Al-Anon, can be life-changing. Once you begin to heal and learn coping skills, you can be physically and emotionally available for yourself and your loved one. Remember, secure your own oxygen mask first! If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t help anyone. Once you begin your understanding journey, you can learn to offer support and help foster healthy changes for all involved. Finding a supporting group of your own, such as Al-Anon, can be life-changing.
Family Involved Recovery
At Scottsdale Providence, regular family therapy sessions are built into our treatment program along with weekly visitation. We offer a monthly Family Meeting support group and a Family Workshop to provide essential tools for improving communication, establishing healthy boundaries and repairing damaged relationships.
Get in touch to learn more!