Substance use disorder is a complex disease that impacts more than just the person struggling. The entire family system feels the ripple effects of substance use and it can lead to broken trust, emotional distress, and strained relationships for every family member. Yet if a loved one chooses to embark on a journey of recovery, family support plays a vital role in fostering healing for the individual. At the same time, having the entire family involved in the process of recovery provides an opportunity for healing for the entire family.
How Do I Help My Loved One Recover From Substance Use Disorder?
Having family support during the recovery process is a very important factor for the individual and the family. When families are involved in the recovery journey, everyone can benefit from the strength, stability, and encouragement that infuses the entire situation. Families play an important role in helping their loved one remain substance free and heal from the pathways that led them to addiction. Why does family support matter in recovery?
- Improved Communication: Many times families struggle with communicating during addiction. When in recovery, families can learn to rebuild trust, express emotions in a safe way, listen to each other actively, and process what they have endured together.
- Emotional Healing: When the family is involved in substance abuse recovery, everyone has the opportunity to work through their emotions. Oftentimes, family members carry guilt, feel anger, confusion, and resentment which can be addressed in a safe environment during family therapy in recovery.
- Reduced Relapse Risk: Research has proven that with strong family support, there is a reduced risk of relapse. Feeling supported and encouraged at home provides a sense of belonging and an added layer of accountability which are important aspects for long-term sobriety.
- Support for the Family: Family members need care too. By participating in the recovery process with a professional treatment team, loved ones will learn how to set boundaries, practice self-care, and avoid enabling.
Family counseling, which is a component of most treatment programs, provides the opportunity for families to grow together, navigate the difficult conversations in a safe environment, and rebuild trust. Family support programs also share important educational materials and offer a network of others with similar experiences. For the healing, empowerment, and education that comes with treatment, engaging in the process of recovery can benefit everyone involved.
How Identify Substance Abuse Mississippi
Most often it is the family that recognizes the need for treatment early on. SBIRT empowers families and individuals suffering from substance use disorder by addressing the addiction head on, and sometimes catches it before it becomes a more serious crisis. If you believe a loved one (or yourself) are struggling with a substance use disorder, check out the SBIRT.ms assessment tool. Within minutes, you’ll have a better understanding of the situation you’re facing, as well as treatment tools within your local area. SBIRT is a free tool that helps identify individuals at risk of substance abuse and provides a clear path to professional treatment and recovery support with a referral to treatment. Learn more about this free, online tool with a click!