Addiction is an illness that not only affects the person using drugs or alcohol but also the entire family. Therefore, many treatment centers offer programs that can benefit the family. For a person in recovery, family support can lead to long-term success and help prevent relapse.
Why Is Family Support So Important?
Having a support system in place is essential for those recovering from drugs or alcohol. Knowing that those closest to you understand your struggles and are there to help can make a big difference in how you deal with cravings and difficult times. But in order for your family to give you the support you need, they also need support. Particularly, families need to learn how to communicate with each other, how to set and maintain boundaries, and how to demonstrate their love for each other in positive ways. Some options that can provide support to families are family therapy and family support groups.
Family Therapy
Family therapy can help address conflicts in the family to improve communication and create a better environment at home. Families can learn the importance of setting boundaries so that they don’t fall into the trap of enabling each other to continue in unhealthy patterns.
Family therapy sessions can take place at recovery centers or at private therapy offices and typically involve the client and their family. Some sessions may involve the family alone depending on specific needs and circumstances.
Many times the person who is using drugs and alcohol has damaged their relationship with their family. They may have said hurtful words, broken promises, or caused stress for those who had to watch them struggle with addiction. Family therapy can help bring resentments and fears to light so they can be addressed and resolved.
Having the support of a loving family benefits the person in recovery in multiple ways. It can:
- Foster resilience
- Foster trust and vulnerability
- Provide an environment that is ideal for a sober lifestyle
- Reduce the chance of relapse
Support Group Meetings
Groups such as Al-Anon were created for family members of those suffering from an alcohol use disorder to help them learn from the experiences of others who have faced similar issues. Hearing others share their stories can help families understand that they are not alone. Al-Anon also helps family members know how and when to help their loved one and when to step aside and focus on their own needs.
Supporting a loved one with an addiction can be challenging. Creating a strong support system through the help of professionals and others who share the same experiences is essential.
Lack of Family Support
Not having support from family can slow down a person’s recovery and put them at a risk for relapse. Having a family member who is toxic or who abuses drugs or alcohol can also jeopardize a person’s sobriety. For these reasons, family support for a person in recovery is not always possible. In this case, distancing oneself from family and finding support from friends and a recovery community are crucial.
Twin Lakes Is Here to Support Your Family
If your loved one is struggling with addiction, you know that it can affect the entire family. Twin Lakes Recovery Center understands that addiction is a family illness and that the whole family may need support in moving forward. Our Family Recovery Program can educate families and help them find community resources to assist them in getting the support they need for themselves and their loved one. This program also gives families the opportunity to meet others who share their experiences and can offer encouragement.
