Addiction is not a solitary disease. It has a widespread impact that reaches far beyond the person misusing drugs or alcohol. Family, friends, colleagues, and communities are affected as well. Family members struggle with their own challenges when it comes to coping with addiction and how it affects them and their life.
When a substance use disorder is present, it can contribute to many breakdowns in the family. Getting everyone to participate in the addiction treatment and recovery process can have a positive effect on the entire family and build a brighter future.
- Improves Communication: In family therapy you can learn how to talk to – and listen to – each other more effectively. This can help with understanding each other’s perspective and opinion. It can support the rebuilding of trust and respect that may have been damaged during active addiction.
- Creates Healthier Relationships: Learning how to talk to and interact with one another in more constructive ways can improve family connections. You can take the time to get to know one another and appreciate each person’s strengths. In addition, you will be more prepared to work through challenges together.
- Supports Problem Solving: Family therapy can teach you how to work through problems together and come to a mutual agreement. Instead of one person becoming upset and the other shutting down, you will have more effective strategies of coming to a solution. This can be applied throughout many aspects of your life.
- Promoting Prevention: When you create a drug-free environment and practice healthier routines, you are setting a positive example for everyone in your family. You are creating an environment that protects against substance abuse and opens lines of communication for honest discussion.
Building a stronger family can take time. Everyone will have changes and adjustments to make and adapt to. Having patience can pay off as you see your family changing for the better and appreciating one another. Above It All can help you get on the road to recovery and rebuild relationships with your family through comprehensive addiction treatment.
[cta] Leave a comment and let us know how recovery has strengthened your family relationships! [/cta]