Addiction and substance abuse can alter family dynamics, damage trust, and weaken communication. Family members who experience a loved one undergoing the turmoil of a substance use disorder often endure many different painful emotions. Equally frustrating is the hopelessness loved ones feel in response to substance abuse. Family members may feel at a loss when seeing a loved one caught in the grips of substance abuse. However, families can help their loved one achieve and maintain sobriety. Despite seeing a loved one struggle, family members have the ability to play a major role in the treatment process. The role of the family in addiction recovery is very significant and important.
A Family’s Role in Addiction
A family affected by substance abuse inevitably turns into a dysfunctional system. In this system, members unknowingly take on “roles” in order to cope with it. These roles have been called many things, and this is a version of what they are and how they play out.
The Rescuer/Enabler/Caregiver
The Enabler insulates the addicted individual by excusing their behavior. They are unwilling or unable to hold the individual accountable for their actions. They smooth things over and run interference to keep the addict from experiencing the logical consequences of their poor choices. This behavior often springs from their desire to avoid shame and embarrassment. They will often stunt the addict’s ability to recover if they don’t change their patterns.
The Scapegoat
The Scapegoat is the person in the family who is blamed. The Scapegoat creates other concerns and issues in an attempt to deflect attention away from the real issue. They are very successful at distracting the family as well as others from the individual struggling with addiction.
Family members can take on helpful roles and behaviors to encourage and support recovery. Healthy family roles and behaviors include practicing accountability for their loved one and their behavior and offering rewards for positive choices.
Family members may attend support groups with their loved one or attend their own support groups for families of addicts. The creation of healthy boundaries and refusing to focus on the behavior of the addict are the building blocks of recovery for the family.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break the dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addiction and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction. The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
