Addiction is a disease of the mind and body that touches every aspect of the addict’s life, including the family unit. Addictive behaviors impact how the family functions as a whole, so when the addict enters rehabilitation it is important for the family to participate in treatment. Many families develop weak boundaries, enabling behaviors and poor communication as the result of addiction. Many families lack the basic knowledge about addiction that is needed to help support addicts in recovery. Treatment facilities generally offer family therapy and addiction education to stimulate safe and healthy communication.
Communication and education are integral in helping the family recovery. Addiction robs the true function of a support system; workshops or structured family programs usually bring together loved ones in a supportive, non-confrontational manner. These groups are educational programs that consist of lectures, presentations, videos and group discussions. Educating and addressing the dynamics of addiction, family programs touch on the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual dimensions of those impacted by addiction. These workshops or programs are generally open to anyone that has an addict in their life; including but not limited to children, significant others, parents and siblings.
Family Program Model:
- A three to five day intensive educational program
- Geared for family members thirteen-years-old and over who have been, or are being, affected by a loved one’s addiction
- Focuses on understanding the disease and its impact on others
- Provides counseling and education to help families understand the disease of addiction, codependency, and recovery
- Can offer hope and useful guidance in ending the cycle of addiction, stress, chaos, fear, and codependency
- Family Program counselors facilitate groups.
Program groups brings together several families struggling with addiction so they may solve their common problem and process their experiences with empathetic individuals. Often, communicating feelings of fear, shame, and guilt is frowned upon in families with addiction. Groups offer the opportunity for families to express these feelings in a safe environment. Participants share at the level that they feel comfortable. As a result of open communication, families relate to one another’s struggles and realize they aren’t alone.
Family treatment programs provide valuable information, support and encouragement to individuals affected by another person’s addiction. Many family members are unaware of how acutely they have been affected by their loved one’s addiction. They may also need clarity on how to best support the addict in recovery. Participants can discuss their concerns and ask questions so that they can make well-informed decisions. Many residential and non-residential rehabilitation centers offer these types of platforms that assist in an addict’s journey to salvaging relationships and working towards a long-term goal of sobriety.
