Is Addiction A Family Disease?
When it comes to addiction, it is seen by most as a singular disease. It’s something that many people don’t immediately associate with being a disease that can impact anyone else. However, we know that is not the case at all.
Addiction can impact more than just those struggling with it. Friends, family members, and children can all feel the effects that addiction causes.
It’s common for people to question this because it might not make sense at first. We want to dedicate this post to talking about how addiction is, in fact, a family disease.
The Unique Family Connection
People within a family unit have unique relationships with other members. Whether they live in the same household or not, the actions of others can have a profound and lasting impact on other family members.
Our dynamics with other family members are some of the most important relationships we will ever have. From early childhood, these relationships help shape us into the people we are.
How Addiction Can Impact A Family
When one family member struggles with addiction, it can cause a damaging ripple effect on the relationships they have with other members.
Not every member of the family will have the same reaction to the substance use problem. Sometimes, these reactions can range from being very extreme (which is often justified) to barely noticeable. For instance, one family member might try to overcompensate or become controlling as the addict lets go of their other responsibilities. On the other hand, another family member may act as if the changes don’t faze them. There aren’t always right or wrong answers to how family members react to addiction. However, some reactions I would consider healthier than others.
Mental, Emotional and Physical Health May Change
Just as the addict’s body and mental state are transformed by substance use, the family will also begin noticing changes as well.
Eating too much or little as a way to cope with stress
Change of sleep habits (most often insomnia)
Self-care practices fall to the wayside as their lives become centered around trying to help the addict
Feelings of depression
Worrying and feeling stressed over the situation
Social isolation as they withdraw from others so no one will suspect what is going on
Feelings of shame or worthlessness for not being able to do more for their loved one who has the addiction
Fear for the health and life of the person struggling with addiction
Feeling financially burdened as they try to support the addict
Children can feel low self-esteem or feeling unsafe in their home
Children may also struggle with keeping up with school
Dealing With Addiction As A Family
Addiction, all around, can be a very isolating experience. It not only deteriorates the person’s life who is struggling with it but has the power to do the same to those who are around this person regularly.
Addiction is a family disease because it threatens the livelihood, peace, and serenity of everyone! But, on a positive note, addiction is a family disease that can be overcome. When a family member alters their toxic or unhealthy patterns into healthy communication, boundaries, and support, the entire family can feel the change! When someone is recovering, it is highly beneficial to feel supported by their family as they fight the disease. Whenever you are in doubt, ask yourself: “Am I supporting their recovery or their addiction?” Are you supporting your family’s health or enabling the toxicity?
How Can A Family Get Help For Substance Use?
One of the most robust methods to help a family deal with addiction is through therapy. Receiving mental health for the person who has the addiction is paramount to recovery success (Please check out our podcast that further discusses how addiction negatively affects the brain). But, since the family’s mental health has also been affected, they can also benefit from it. This is another reason we provide our Addiction Recovery Intensive. This month-long treatment program is for substance abusers in early recovery AND their family members! We’ve found this is so valuable for everyone involved. In addition, we offer several options for those seeking healing and guidance regarding addiction recovery; we encourage you to check out the rest of our website.
If you or a loved one could benefit from addiction counseling or family therapy, please get in touch with us.
If you are ready to learn more about addiction counseling, reach out to us to begin.