Addiction: A Family Disease
When addressing addiction, it’s important as a provider to identify areas where positive change and healing can occur. However, addiction does not impact only one person—it affects everyone involved, from co-workers to spouses. The purpose of therapy is not to place blame but to promote healing as a group. As a provider, part of my job is to be an advocate for my clients and for those who are important in their lives.
Often, individuals struggling with addiction feel a sense of helplessness—and their support systems often feel the same. The pain of watching a loved one struggle with addiction is heartbreaking, and there is often a great deal of shame and blame that comes with it. Addiction is not a choice, but a disease that changes the dynamic within the family system in order to find homeostasis—a system that continues to function, though not always in the healthiest way.
As the individual addresses their addiction through detox, treatment, and ongoing therapy, the recovery process—just like the addiction—will affect the entire family. Families should be prepared for slow but meaningful growth and change. The individual in recovery may need to attend community recovery meetings and complete the 12 steps with a sponsor (someone who has achieved long-term sobriety and completed their own 12 steps with a sponsor). Although feelings of happiness and gratitude will be shared throughout the family, it’s important to remember that, like any disease, addiction does not simply go away. The individual enters remission through the absence of the substance, therapy, and the support network cultivated during recovery.
As a family member of someone struggling with addiction, you also deserve support. Finding your own support system is pivotal in helping your loved one. Individual therapy and Al-Anon meetings are available to you as well. Al-Anon is a support group for family members, providing a safe and supportive environment to discuss both the challenges and positive changes that come with a loved one’s addiction and recovery. In Al-Anon, participants also follow the 12 steps and gain education about addiction to develop understanding and empathy for what their loved one has experienced. Al-Anon meetings are highly recommended. Additionally, finding a therapist who is skilled and trained in substance use can be a valuable resource for expressing your concerns in a safe and supportive environment.
If you are struggling with addiction—either personally or with a loved one—please feel free to contact me for a consultation or initial session to receive the support you deserve.
