Are you related to has been suffering from substance abuse? If so, then you know that recovering from this problem is taxing on the individual. It’s also a very hard process for the family of that individual. Families that are impacted by drugs and alcohol can experience deep hurt. But, while their loved one is recovering, the family members can feel a lot of emotions. Not only that, but people who are going through treatment for substance abuse need a strong support system. They need people around them who will give them the love and emotional support they need. That’s why family involvement during substance abuse recovery is so important.
Why Have Family Involvement?
It’s important to remember that substance abuse really does affect the entire family. This includes the siblings, children, parents, and spouse of the person who has struggled with drugs or alcohol. Just as the whole family has experienced the pain of substance dependence together, they should all discover the healing treatment brings. Counseling and treatment are not only for the person who’s recovering. It also helps his or her close friends and family members. So, family involvement is helpful to the whole group.
Also, families need to know about the best ways to help their loved ones. If family members are engaged in the therapy process, they can learn more about the best ways to support the recovering person. This is especially helpful in cases where the one who struggled with addiction in involved in an outpatient type of treatment. His or her home life may be very challenging. Family involvement, with the proper training and information, can be exactly what that individual needs.
When To Get Involved
Many times, families are caught off guard by the news that a loved one is struggling with addiction. Sometimes, the members of a family don’t even know how the addiction started. But, as soon as a loved one begins showing any behavior changes, family involvement should kick in. If you have a loved one who has gradually been changing, check into it. You should ask questions and find out if anything is happening that you don’t know about. Basically, you should get involved as soon as you realize something is wrong. If you do find out that your family member is suffering from addiction, seek professional help for them. And then, find out how you can help with the process ahead.
One thing you can do is practice more understanding. Your loved one may not be immediately ready to open up to you. He or she could be feeling guilt or shame. Be patient and show that you understand. You may not know everything about what your family member is going through. But, your love and support can really help them.
Also, think about what your loved one was struggling with. Was he or she abusing alcohol? If so, you should try to encourage sobriety at events. When the whole family gets together for a night of fun, leave out the alcohol. Your loved one needs to be away from atmospheres that could cause relapse. When the whole family gets on board, the individual can recover a lot more smoothly.
We Value Family Involvement
Here at Asheville Recovery Center, we both value and encourage family involvement during the recovery process. If your loved one is going through treatment for drug or alcohol abuse, we want you all to get involved. We offer treatment and counseling for the whole family. Drugs and alcohol can break a family, but treatment can bring healing to everyone. Need some help getting involved with your loved one’s recovery? Contact us today.
