For a moment, consider that 1 in 5 children live in a household where a parent suffers from a form of alcoholism and drug addiction, and you may begin to understand how serious this situation is becoming. As a result of living in these homes, these innocent children can eventually grow up to become resentful and erratic individuals, the product of years of emotional and physical strain at the hands of one or both parents. Besides changing the psychological state, drugs and alcohol can impact how parents care of their little ones (or teens) and induce a series of behaviors that (in all actuality) are not typically exhibited by these parents. Furthermore, if the mental illness is not treated, these households will eventually succumb to a flood of financial problems and (in the worst-case scenario) child or spousal abuse. Let’s take a closer look at the grim reality of how substance abuse and addiction affect families.
Children Suffer from Parents’ Sicknesses
While the parents are (indeed) suffering from their dreadful mental illnesses, we must not forget that the individuals who suffer just as much (if not more) in these situations are children. According to the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress, multiple factors indicate how parental abuse and addiction can negatively impact a child’s life:
- Chaos in the home environment
- Connection between substance abuse and violent behavior
- Triggering of additional mental health problems
- Creating problems with physical health
- A catalyst for problems at school
- Cause of emotional confusion and erratic behavior
- Increases the likelihood of a child developing drug abuse or addiction
Considering Family Therapy
While this situation seems dire and absolutely hopeless, families can always find a way to get back together with the right help from professionals. Programs including drug-detox and long-term rehab are excellent ways for one or both parents to clean up their act and ensure they can provide a better future and example for their little ones. During family therapy sessions, children can also voice their opinions on the matter and receive instruction on how to set up rules and boundaries.
Always remember that drugs and alcohol do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction troubles today.
