As many family members of those recovering from substance abuse are aware, the recovery process can be difficult, and the assistance of other family members can be of great assistance. In fact, one in ten Americans have used illegal drugs within the past month, and one in fifteen have engaged in heavy drinking. Heroin abuse is growing. So, how do you assist a recovering family member? Here are several ways to assist.
Family members of someone in recovery from substance abuse frequently require assistance. Addicts frequently exhibit codependent behaviors and conflicted emotions. In addition to the physical effects of addiction, family members also experience stress and uncertainty due to the drug or alcohol use of their addicted loved one. Community groups and individual therapy can help alleviate some of the stress.
Religious-based recovery support is another type of community-based support. This type of group bases its recovery model on the acceptance of a higher power on Christian scripture. Participants also benefit from overcoming addiction literature, such as the Bible. The model emphasizes the significance of acknowledging a higher power and celebrates recovery as a method for overcoming addiction. Members can share their experiences and seek support from other community members in similar circumstances.
The mental and emotional toll of substance abuse is felt by both the addict and his or her family members. Observing the struggles of a person with a substance use disorder can induce feelings of helplessness, anger, and fear. A family member who is exhausted cannot maintain their own health or wellbeing. Consequently, addicted family members run the risk of developing a variety of physical and mental health conditions.
While the addiction of a substance-abusing parent is most distressing for the addict, its effects on the entire family can be equally devastating. Frequently, the children of addicts are neglected or act out to divert attention away from their parents. These factors all contribute to a feeling of confusion and fear within the home. Family members who are mentally and emotionally depleted may develop apathy and resentment towards the addict.
Although there are no "magic pills" for recovery, family members of recovering addicts should surround themselves with people who share their values. Support groups, community groups, and individual counseling are all excellent ways to obtain the necessary assistance. Recovering is difficult, but family members can find solace by conversing with others who have faced similar obstacles. Support groups can help family members find new coping mechanisms and gain valuable insight and understanding from others.
Having coping skills enables the addict to face the changes in their lives. Substance abusers use drugs and alcohol to manage the changes that accompany recovery. However, they must learn new skills to manage the changes that accompany drug or alcohol withdrawal after rehabilitation. This is due to the fact that coping skills can assist the recovering addict in returning to a normal life. In addition, they can assist the addict in establishing a solid foundation for recovery.
Participation in treatment as a support for a person recovering from substance abuse can be an excellent way to learn more about the condition and encourage the addict to make positive changes. Family members can gain the ability to influence and accept responsibility for the actions of their loved ones. They can learn healthy boundaries, trigger management, and how to overcome negative behavioral patterns during treatment. These behaviors are essential to the recovery process.
The support of the individual's family is essential to his or her recovery process. It assists the individual in recovery in explaining their actions and making amends with those who care about them. Participation in treatment can restore connections and relationships and provide answers regarding addiction. A family involved in the recovery process can provide the recovering addict with emotional and financial support. For instance, family members can engage in family therapy.