When a person struggles with a substance use disorder, their disease affects their spouses, children, and other family members. Because of this, addiction is often called a family disease. But families are also a crucial part of the healing process. Family involvement in their loved one’s addiction recovery helps every family member heal. Studies show that when families are involved in their loved one’s addiction recovery treatment, the person has a better chance of long-lasting sobriety.
What is a Family?
There is not a single definition of the word ‘family.’ As beliefs and cultures change, so does the concept of family. Today, a family can consist of two parents living together with their children; single parents and their children; or any combination of people raising children (adoptive parents, stepfamilies, foster relationships, etc.). Families do not have to include children at all and can be chosen instead of linked by blood, law, or marriage. They can include emancipated youth living with peers; non-biologically related people who have emotional ties; and more.
In addiction recovery, a family is defined as the individual’s closest emotional connections. In family therapy, the therapist asks the individual who they think should be included in therapy sessions. It is essential to find out who the individual considers their family and who is important to them.
FAMILY SUPPORT GIVES YOUR LOVED ONE HOPE
When family members take an active part in their loved one’s recovery, the person sees they are loving and supportive. It gives them the strength and courage to work hard each day to maintain their sobriety, even when things are challenging or feel uncomfortable. Family members provide encouragement and hope that lasting recovery is possible.
FAMILY SUPPORT REDUCES THE RISK OF RELAPSE
People in addiction recovery who have involved and supportive families have a reduced chance of relapsing after treatment. The risk is lower because family members have educated themselves about addiction. They know the causes of addiction and understand triggers and relapse. This allows them to help their loved ones throughout the recovery process. Families provide an extra layer of accountability.
FAMILY SUPPORT PROVIDES A SENSE OF CONNECTION AND COMMUNITY
Family members provide their loved ones with a sense of connection and community. In active addiction, people isolate themselves away from family and friends. They stop doing things they once enjoyed. In recovery, some people may feel lonely or isolated. They are unsure of how to reconnect with the people they care about.
By attending addiction support groups, such as 12-step programs, family members can provide a sense of community for their loved ones in addiction recovery. Support groups create a feeling of connection and belonging while providing practical support for families.
How to Provide Emotional Support
Providing your loved one with emotional support throughout recovery helps them stay motivated and focused on their recovery goals.
Several ways to provide emotional support to your loved one include:
- Offering encouragement
- Offering positive reinforcement
- Offering support
- Being there to listen without judgment when needed, and providing feedback or perspective when asked
- Creating and maintaining a healthy, positive environment for addiction recovery
How to Provide Practical Assistance
When family members provide practical assistance to loved ones in addiction recovery, they allow the person to focus on their recovery instead of worrying over the tasks of daily life. Depending on the person and their situation, family members can help their loved one locate addiction treatment programs, make and follow a daily routine, cook meals, do laundry, or buy groceries.
Additional examples of how to provide practical assistance include:
- Connecting them with addiction support resources
- Driving them to counseling sessions, meetings, and appointments
- Helping with childcare
- Helping your loved one stay accountable to their recovery goals
ARE YOU STRUGGLING WITH ADDICTION?
If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, we can help. At Canyon Vista Recovery Center, located in Mesa, Arizona, our skilled professionals can help you regain control of your life. Using a combination of medical and psychiatric care, evidence-based addiction treatments, and holistic therapies, we will provide you with the coping skills you need to live a clean and sober life.
