Addiction Is A Family Disease: Here’s How Recovery Can Help
Addiction is often thought of as an individual problem, but it can also have a major impact on families. In fact, some experts believe that addiction along with mental health disorders is a family disease.
What does addiction is a family disease mean? – It means that when someone in a family has an addiction, it affects everyone in the family. It can cause stressful situations, anxiety, depression, and tension among all members of the family. Additionally, families may begin to experience financial hardships due to the addict’s behaviors.
In my private practice as a family therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how addictive behaviors can affect the entire family. Parents, spouses, and even children can be deeply impacted by the addict’s behaviors.
It does not matter if it’s a drug addiction, alcohol abuse, substance use problems, or any other type of drug abuse. The effects of addiction can negatively impact the friends, family, and co-workers of the addicted person.
In my practice, I have worked with many clients who are struggling with alcohol and drug addiction.
What I see is the toll it can have on the family. Many are worried and concerned, but feel helpless in
the face of the disease.
Often, it is the fear of not knowing what to do or how to handle the situation. It can become very emotional within the family. The family often becomes frustrated and angry, which causes tension in the family.
The goal of course is to help the addicted family member, but most members don’t know how to help. The effects on the family creates family members to enable or alienate and be angry with the addict. They get frustrated when their efforts to help do not help the addicted family member.
“Prolonged abuse will deteriorate the health of your loved one, damage their spirit, and impair their mental function, but this will impact the physical health, finances, and psychological well-being of your entire family. Addiction takes a heavy toll on everyone in the family, and it is important for the entire family to seek help when needed.” – jcrecoverycenter.com
In my counseling sessions with families, we work on understanding the family dynamics that are
played out in the family. We discuss the ways that addiction has changed the relationships between
family members, and how it is impacting each one of them differently.
We explored how family dynamics contribute to addiction and vice versa; we also discussed healthy ways for family members to cope and support each other while managing their own struggles with addiction.
Through my work with addiction and families, I learned just how important family dynamics can be when it comes to addiction. It isn’t an individual’s sole responsibility to overcome their addiction; their family plays a huge role in the process.
I was able to witness firsthand the powerful effects of understanding and accepting family dynamics within the context of addiction–and how, with dedication and support from each other, family members can help each other manage their addiction.
If you are suffering from an active addiction or you’re a family member of someone who is, here is what you need to know about how addiction can affect families and what you can do to help.
What Is The Family Systems Model Of Addiction?
The family systems model of addiction is a way to look at how families interact and influence each other. This model views behavior and relationships in the family as being interconnected, meaning that one person’s actions can have an effect on the whole family.
In the case of addiction, this means that if someone in the family has an addiction, their behavior can influence the entire family.
The family systems model of addiction looks at the environment and dynamics of a family unit to better understand how addiction functions within it, and what types of interventions may be most helpful for recovery.
The model suggests that if an individual’s behavior changes, it can have a ripple effect on the entire family system. For example, if an addicted person in the family begins to receive treatment or engage in healthier behaviors, the entire family system can be affected.
The model also suggests that when one person in a family unit experiences recovery, it can create an environment of support, which can help to promote healing for the whole family.
Does The Family Dynamic Contribute To The Disease Of Addiction?
Family dynamics can have a huge influence on someone’s risk of developing an addiction.
Growing up in an environment where mental illness or substance misuse is present can significantly increase the chances of developing a substance use disorder, especially if those behaviors are seen as socially acceptable.
Being exposed to an addicted parent or any other addicted family member can lead to a child thinking that substance misuse is normal behavior, thus leading them to use substances themselves.
Additionally, family members may not recognize the signs of addiction and be unable to provide support. This can easily lead to the person feeling isolated and more likely to turn to an addictive substance for comfort.
Family dynamics can also have a positive impact on someone’s risk of developing an addiction. Parents who are actively involved in their children’s lives and provide guidance, support, and healthy coping skills can reduce the risk of their child developing an addiction.
Open communication and healthy boundaries can help family members feel connected but still allow for independence, which can help people learn healthy coping skills to manage their emotions without the need to use substances.
Is Addiction Considered A Genetic Disorder?
The answer to this question isn’t a straightforward yes or no. Research shows that addiction does have a genetic component, but it is much more complex than that. What I mean is that although there may be a genetic component to your addiction, the environment also plays a part as well.
Research shows that genetics have somewhere between a 40% and 60% influence on addiction.
clevelandclinic.org
Studies have shown that people with a family history of substance use disorders are at higher risk for developing an addiction themselves. Genetics influence the way people process substances and respond to drug cues, meaning that a person’s risk of developing an addiction can be influenced by their genes.
But it’s important that you understand that just because you may have the genes that make you prone to having an addiction, does not mean that you are going to develop one. There are a number of environmental factors that can influence the development of an addiction, such as trauma, stress and social environments.
So as I said before, while genetics may play a role in addiction, it is not the only factor. A person’s environment and lifestyle choices also have a major impact on their risk of developing an addiction. It is not a predetermined path that someone is destined to take.
Ultimately, it’s a combination of genetics and environmental factors that can lead to the development of an addiction disorder. While one’s family history may increase their risk for developing an addiction, it is not destiny and many people are able to manage their addictions through therapy and/or support groups.
Is Addiction A Chronic Disease?
The answer is yes, addiction is a chronic disease, and one that can have long-lasting effects on individuals, families, and communities. Addiction alters the way your brain works, changing its chemistry and affecting your behavior in negative ways.
Just like other chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, addiction can require lifelong treatment to manage it.
Treatment for addiction is typically an individualized process that focuses on the physical and psychological aspects of an individual’s addiction. This may include medications, psychotherapy, neurofeedback therapy, lifestyle changes, support groups or other treatments tailored to each person’s individual needs.
The effectiveness of addiction treatment varies depending on the severity of an individual’s addiction, as well as any underlying mental health issues or trauma that may have contributed to their substance use disorder. For some individuals, long-term recovery from addiction can be possible with professional help and support.
Overall, addiction is not something that you can simply will away; it requires professional help, dedication, and a commitment to building new habits and improving physical and mental well-being.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is not intended to be used as medical advice. If you are struggling with an addiction, please seek professional help. Additionally, the views expressed in this article are solely that of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of any other parties.
How Does Family Dynamics Contribute To Addiction?
Family dynamics and family roles can play a significant role in the development and maintenance of addiction. Addiction is a complex issue that can arise from various factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and social and psychological factors.
So, I want to talk about how family dynamics and family roles can contribute to the development and maintenance of addiction.
Family Dynamics
Family dynamics refer to the way family members interact with each other and the patterns of communication and relationships within the family. Dysfunctional family dynamics can contribute to addiction in various ways, including:
- Neglect: Neglectful families may fail to provide adequate emotional support and attention to their children, leading to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and anxiety, which can increase the risk of substance use.
- Trauma: Traumatic experiences such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, and parental divorce can disrupt the development of children and increase the risk of addiction.
- Enmeshment: Enmeshed families have blurred boundaries, making it challenging for members to differentiate their emotions and thoughts from those of others. This dynamic can lead to codependency, which is a significant risk factor for addiction.
- Conflict: High levels of conflict within a family can create a stressful environment, leading to anxiety and depression, which can increase the risk of substance use.
Family Roles
Family roles refer to the patterns of behavior and responsibilities that each family member adopts to fulfill the family’s needs. The roles can be either explicit or implicit, and they can change over time. Dysfunctional family roles can contribute to addiction in various ways, including:
- The Enabler: The enabler is a family member who supports the addict by shielding them from the consequences of their actions, providing financial support, or making excuses for their behavior.
- The Hero: The hero is the family member who tries to maintain a positive image for the family by excelling in academics, sports, or other activities. The hero may feel pressure to maintain this image, leading to anxiety and stress, which can increase the risk of substance use.
- The Scapegoat: The scapegoat is the family member who is blamed for the family’s problems and may feel ostracized and unsupported, leading to feelings of low self-esteem and worthlessness, which can increase the risk of substance use.
- The Lost Child: The lost child is the family member who tries to avoid conflict by withdrawing from the family and may feel isolated and disconnected, which can increase the risk of substance use.
- The Mascot: The mascot is the family member who tries to lighten the mood by using humor and may feel pressure to maintain this role, leading to anxiety and stress, which can increase the risk of substance use.
In conclusion, family dynamics and family roles can contribute to the development and maintenance of addiction in various ways. Understanding and addressing these dynamics and roles can be essential in preventing and treating addiction.
It is crucial to seek professional help and support when dealing with addiction, as it can be a challenging issue to tackle alone.
The Cycle Of Addiction In Families
Oftentimes, children of addicts find themselves at risk of developing their own addictions later on in their lives as addictive patterns are passed down from one generation to the next.
The influence of parental addiction on a child’s life can begin in utero. Mothers who use drugs or alcohol while pregnant place their children at risk of preterm birth as well as physical and cognitive disabilities. Impairments related to prenatal exposure to drugs and alcohol can place children at risk of bullying and social difficulties, increasing their vulnerability to peer pressure related to substance use.
waypointrecoverycenter.com
This cycle of addiction perpetuates itself unless steps are taken to break out of it before it’s too late. It is possible for individuals to come out of an addiction-filled family and have a successful life without ever becoming addicted, though it requires learning crucial life skills and seeking support during difficult moments.
How To Break The Cycle Of Addiction In Families
Breaking the cycle of addiction in families can be quite a daunting task, but there are some steps we can take to make it easier.
- Accept what addiction is: The very first step is to acknowledge that addiction is a disease and not a personal failure or weakness. We need to remember and practice compassion – both for ourselves and the person suffering from addiction.
- Educate yourself about addiction: Understanding the nature of addiction, its causes, and its effects on the individual and the family is crucial to breaking the cycle of addiction. There are many resources available online and in your community that can help you learn more about addiction and its impact.
- Seek professional treatment: Addiction is a complex disease, and it often requires professional help to address it. Consider seeking the support of a therapist, counselor, or addiction specialist who can provide guidance and support as you work to break the cycle of addiction in your family.
- Encourage open communication: Communication is key to breaking the cycle of addiction. Encourage open and honest communication within your family, and work to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where family members can share their thoughts and feelings.
- Set boundaries: Setting clear boundaries can be an effective way to break the cycle of addiction. This can include setting limits on drug and alcohol use or setting boundaries around specific behaviors or activities.
- Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential when dealing with an addiction problem in the family. Make sure to take time for yourself, engage in activities that you enjoy, and seek out support from friends and family.
- Get involved in support groups: There are many support groups available for individuals and families dealing with addiction. Consider joining a group such as Al-Anon or Nar-Anon, which provides support and guidance for families affected by addiction.
- Stay committed: Breaking the cycle of addiction can be a long and challenging process, but it is important to stay committed to the process. Stay positive, celebrate small successes, and continue to seek out support and guidance as needed.
Resources For Families Struggling With Addiction
If you or someone in your family is struggling with addiction, help is available! Although figuring out where to turn can be daunting, organizations, treatment centers and intensive outpatient programs exist all around the country to offer guidance, support and resources.
Levels of care for individuals struggling with addiction:
In patient-The highest level of care. Offers clients to stay 30 days ir more in a facility that teaches
coping skills and helps get the client sober, if they have a detox regime within the facility.
PHP – Next level is Partial Hospitalization Program. Client stays at home but attends individual, group
and family counseling 5 days a week for 6-8 hours a day,
IOP – Intensive Outpatient-Client stays at home or a sober living and attends individual, group and
family counseling. This is usually 3 days a week for 3 hours a day.
Sober Living – It is a place to stay where you will have a supportive community and can start a new life
free from alcohol and drugs. Residents in sober living homes commit to abstaining from substance use
while participating in outpatient programming or after completing in patient drug rehab.
Statistics show that the longer a person is in treatment the higher the chances of staying sober. Many
individuals will go to IOP after a staying at a residential treatment center. Some will add the sober
living to help stay sober or if their home is not safe to be because of drug and alcohol abuse.
Also, there are specifically trained health care specialists that can help as well. These include:
- Mental health counselors
- Addiction specialists
- Addiction psychiatrists
Support For Family: An Important Part of Recovery
- Al-ANON (12 step support group for families of addict)
- CODA (Codependency support group for families)
- SMART RECOVERY Family and Friends
- Celebrate Recovery (Faith Based)
Depending on the situation and resources available in your area, these services can play an integral part in helping an individual address their addiction issues.
Doing research on local organizations for support and examining insurance coverage for options are both helpful places to start.
Reaching out for help to a health care provider or organization does not have to be an intimidating endeavor – there are people that specialize in assisting families through this difficult journey who will gladly lend a hand with compassion and understanding.
It truly takes courage to get started so don’t hesitate; reach out for help today!
Addiction is a serious issue that affects not just the addict, but also their loved ones. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please seek help from one of the resources listed above. Remember, you are not alone in this fight.
For more information about our counseling and neurotherapy services, contact us today via email or call us at 404-449-1236.
Additional Resources on Addiction
Here are some helpful books that may help you and your family with problems related to addiction.
In The Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction
Rewired: A Bold New Approach To Addiction and Recovery
Understanding and Helping an Addict (and keeping your sanity)
Contact Information And Clinic Locations
Our clinic is conveniently located, and our contact information is readily available for any inquiries you may have.
For more information about our counseling and neurotherapy services, contact us today via email or call us at 404-449-1236.
