Individuals struggling with a substance use disorder often feel isolated and that they are fighting their battle alone. While it is true that those suffering from addiction or mental health disorders tend to withdraw from friends and family, their problems do not occur in a vacuum. Addiction is a disease that impacts the lives of all it touches, including friends and family, classifying it as a family disease. Addiction experts agree that family members and close friends, in certain circumstances, play a vital role in the recovery process. To this end, effective substance use disorder treatment should include a family therapy program.
Insight Into Action Therapy provides numerous programs for families impacted by substance use disorders and mental health disorders. Through our programs, you will find the care and support needed for healing and recovery. Learn more about how we can help you and your loved ones by calling 703.935.8544.
The Benefits of Family Therapy for Addiction Treatment and Recovery
Addiction is a complex disease, especially when the person suffering has an underlying mental health disorder, which is often the case. The relationship between mental health and substance use disorders is complex and intertwined. The two feed off of one another, creating a cycle that is almost impossible to break without professional intervention. When someone you love is stuck in the throes of addiction, you are left feeling hopeless and helpless. Insight Into Action Therapy’s family therapy program provides the opportunity for families impacted by the effects of addiction to heal and grow.
The personal benefits of family therapy are unique to each person, but expected benefits can include:
- Improved communication
- Development of healthy boundaries
- Improved family dynamics
- Identifying and changing dysfunctional roles
- Improved coping skills and problem-solving strategies
- Rebuilding trust
- Learning to share thoughts and feelings in healthy ways
In our family therapy program, the term family is not limited to blood relatives or those who share a home. It encompasses anyone who plays a significant role in a client’s life. A critical benefit of family therapy is that everyone can see that they are not alone and that their feelings matter.
How to Help a Loved One With Addiction
Often it is clear when a loved one is struggling with substance abuse or addiction, and you are unsure what you should do or how you can help. Every situation is different. However, there are some basic things you can do:
- Educate yourself about addiction – The more informed you are about substance abuse and addiction, the better you will understand what your loved one is going through.
- Offer support – Most people struggling with drug abuse or addiction feel isolated and lose sight of how much they are loved. Letting them know that you are willing to support them in recovery if they seek help can provide the encouragement they need.
- Do not ignore the problem – Ignoring or downplaying your loved one’s addiction will not help. Be clear about your concerns and the impacts of their addiction.
- Be an advocate for treatment – People in the grips of addiction often feel that there is no way out. Provide them with information and assure them that you will support them when they choose to seek treatment.
Above all, you need to take care of yourself. Whether you realize it or not, your loved one’s substance abuse or addiction takes a toll on your well-being. Be sure that you are tending to your mental, emotional, and physical health. You can also reach out to support groups like Al-Anon.
Find Family Support in Recovery at Insight Into Action Therapy
Through family therapy at Insight Into Action Therapy, you will learn to identify and build upon the strengths of individual family members and the family as a whole. We provide clients and their families a safe, supportive environment to explore and come to terms with the impacts of addiction on all of those involved. Reach out to learn more about how family therapy can help you and your family take those first steps toward sobriety by calling 703.935.8544.