For some, family is a resource unlike any other. However, having a healthy family takes work, commitment, and dedication. As a result, tensions are bound to arise. Siblings bicker, couples fight, loved ones are lost, and mistakes are made. But for most, even in the most pressing circumstances, there remains an unexplainable drive to stick together and provide support. Alcohol addiction poses a significant threat to the family structure. Family support for alcoholics, however, can combat this illness.
Alcohol addiction is something many encounter in their lives. Whether experiencing it personally or seeing it occur in someone else, addiction can harm individuals and those close to them. As a result, it is important to know the signs of alcoholism and the services available for treatment. One of the best forms of support those experiencing alcoholism can receive is from their family. If you are looking for family therapy near me, consider the Santé Center for Healing. Contact us at 866.238.3154 to learn about our family therapy programs.
What Is Family Support for Alcoholics?
Family support for alcoholics is no different from family support for other issues. The only difference is the focus. There are many things that families can do to support those suffering from alcohol addiction. From hosting an intervention to attending family therapy, there are many options. There are, however, a few things that a family should not do when trying to support an alcoholic family member. These are:
- Enabling addictive behaviors
- Avoiding the problem
- Attempts to control a person’s actions
- Physically and emotionally distancing oneself
- Lying
- Being quick to judgment and anger
While some of these may seem obvious, sometimes it can be hard to put proper coping skills in perspective when a loved one is using substances. One must be conscious of their emotions and reactions when providing family support for alcoholics, as it is easy to lose track of the goal of helping the family member achieve sobriety.
How Family Support Can Help Addiction
It is an instinct of preservation to care about the thoughts and feelings of loved ones. It is because of this that family members can have such a significant impact on those suffering from addiction. Family therapy is an excellent opportunity for families to discuss their issues in an environment free from unhealthy conflict. This allows family members to share thoughts and feelings that would otherwise go unheard. This can be especially helpful for an alcoholic who uses alcohol to mask a specific pain or trauma. Family therapy can:
Educate the family on the reality of addiction
- Address dysfunction
- Deconstruct family dynamics
- Help set healthy boundaries
- Improve communication methods
- Improve honesty between family members
- Help develop healthy coping mechanisms
- Assist in rebuilding trust
- Improve families’ problem-solving abilities
There are many additional benefits associated with family therapy, but the most significant of these benefits is the space it provides. Tensions can grow so high that talking becomes impossible, and family therapy aims to examine this tension so all members involved can find closure and satisfaction.
Quality Addiction Care Services at the Santé Center for Healing
Family can sometimes be difficult to navigate and sometimes not the source of support one needs. However, the family can also be involved in one’s struggles with substances and aid recovery.
At the Santé Center for Healing, we understand just how significant of an impact family has on addiction. That is why, when treating clients, we don’t shy away from their families. Instead, we encourage them to participate in the process. For more information on family support for alcoholics or to schedule an appointment today, reach out to us at 866.238.3154.
