Although addiction may seem like an individual issue, it is also a family issue. While it is easy to focus all of your attention on the family member with the substance abuse disorder, addiction is an opportunity for your family to unite and heal together.
Treatment centers with a family-centered approach will have different ways for families to get involved with their loved one’s recovery journey. Not only does this help the person in treatment, but it also results in improved family dynamics. A family engagement plan will help the entire family reflect and become aware of their thoughts, behaviors, and actions and how they are affected by addiction.
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What Is A Family Engagement Plan
A family engagement plan may include education about the addiction or disorder your loved one is struggling with, as well as counseling for the entire family. Family therapy is an essential part of recovery and allows for discussion about important issues and sensitive topics in a safe setting. Family involvement also increases chances for successful treatment because a strong support system is one of the critical aspects in long term-recovery.
Sometimes people struggling with addiction will not seek help without the encouragement or intervention of family members, once again proving that family involvement saves lives when it comes to substance abuse. It is not uncommon for there to be a dual diagnosis of depression or anxiety along with a substance abuse disorder, and a family engagement plan can help your loved one feel that they are supported, improving chances for recovery in both instances.
Substance Abuse Disorders Affect The Family
Addiction harms the entire family, causing upheaval, emotional distress, and relationship problems. It is not uncommon for considerable damage to the family finances, as addicts can struggle with job security and may encounter legal difficulties or health crises that they cannot manage or resolve independently. Addicts often become manipulative and more challenging to engage with as their condition worsens.
As a family member, you may be trying your best to help your loved one, to the point that doing so disrupts your own life and well-being. Getting help for your family member struggling with an addiction will positively impact the entire family’s health and well-being as you become aware of how you can help in a way that results in positive outcomes for everyone involved.
Make Your Family Stronger With Accountability
Family-centered counseling will help uncover the dynamics that have contributed to your loved one’s substance abuse disorder. As you may already know, unhealthy family engagement leads to a lack of progress and frustration and can make things even worse. Perhaps there are unsupportive family members who enable the addiction due to their lack of awareness.
With some education and understanding, you will become aware of how your behavior can positively contribute to your loved one’s recovery journey. A culture of accountability will strengthen your family as you feel empowered to help in specific ways, whereas you may have felt powerless before.
How We Can Help You
At Ethan’s Crossing, we strongly focus on long-term recovery from substance abuse and mental health disorders. Our programs include family-centered therapy and healthy family involvement, which are critical recovery components. Rather than waiting for your loved one to heal without your participation, we offer several ways to get involved. Our experienced staff and therapists in Ohio drug rehab provide counseling and education to help you know where, when, and how you can give support. Contact us today if you would like to get involved in your loved one’s recovery journey.