
Importance Of Family Involvement In Recovery
When a family member struggles with addiction or mental health issues, the entire family can be affected. Some common challenges include:
- Stress and anxiety: It is common for family members of those struggling with addiction to experience heightened levels of stress and anxiety because of their loved one’s struggle.
- Strained communication: Misunderstanding and conflicts arise as the addiction causes communication to become strained.
- Financial Issues: Medical bills and lost income can lead to financial issues, impacting the entire family.
- Codependency: Family members may unknowingly enable destructive behavior patterns.
Families often find themselves facing emotional turmoil, strained relationships, and overwhelming questions about how to help their loved ones. Over time, they may also develop unhealthy coping mechanisms like ignoring the problem or trying to control their loved ones. These coping mechanisms must be unlearned for everyone to heal. When family members are actively engaged in the treatment process, patients are more likely to achieve lasting recovery.
Our approach to family involvement is grounded in the belief that recovery is a journey taken together. We aim to address the isolation and alienation often felt by families affected by addiction. Our goal is to equip families with the tools and knowledge to prepare for discharge and beyond, ensuring a smoother transition to life after treatment.
Goal Of Family Programs
There are two primary goals for family involvement in addiction treatment, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration:
- Providing helpful support for the individual in treatment: Individuals undergoing substance use disorder treatment significantly improve their chances of long-term recovery when family therapy is incorporated into their care. Family therapy plays a pivotal role in lowering the risk of relapse and assisting in changing behaviors and attitudes.
- Improve the emotional health of the family as a whole: The purpose of therapy is not only to support the individual but also to encourage trust and forgiveness among family members. Additionally, it helps ease conflict and the sense of continuing crisis by addressing negative emotions that may have built up over time.
One of the most significant benefits of our family programs is the support system they create. Families often experience a rollercoaster of emotions, including guilt, anger, confusion, and fear. Our programs provide a safe and nurturing environment for families to express their feelings, share experiences, and gain emotional resilience. Engaging in our family programs can also lead to stronger and more resilient family bonds. Many families find that the recovery journey brings them closer than ever before.