Recovery

Recovery From Addiction/Alcoholism is a Family Affair

When a person is ill, they rarely suffer alone. Family members feel the pain, fear, loss and weariness thatRecovery 2 come with a loved one’s illness. The same is true when one member of the family has an addiction – everyone in the family is affected.

If someone in your family is struggling with addiction to alcohol or drugs, their situation impacts the entire group. Ultimately, recovery is up to them, but there are ways a family can help both themselves and the one they love.

1. Become Educated
You may think that because you’ve lived it, you already know all there is to know about addiction to alcohol or drug or what is needed for recovery, but that isn’t the case. Ask your doctor for information and read other reputable sources to educate yourself about the facts.

2. Find Support
It’s easy to blame yourself when a loved one’s life starts to come unraveled. Discouragement and shame can lead you to retreat from others. What you really need is a support network where you can find encouragement, hope and a reminder that you aren’t alone or responsible (for the person’s addiction or recovery).

3. Wait Patiently
Your loved one’s addiction to alcohol or drugs didn’t form in a day and recovery won’t arrive overnight. Be patient as the person works through the necessary steps. There will be times when it looks like things have stalled or are even temporarily moving backwards. Stay committed to your loved one and speak positively about your confidence in them. Recovery takes time and comes in fits and starts, but hope is a powerful tool.

If you are looking for a place where your loved one can begin their journey to recovery or if you are looking for somewhere to find the support and encouragement you need, come and visit Family Guidance. Family Guidance offers all types of addiction recovery services including family support groups.