Friends and Family Members
Addiction is a family disease. It affects the entire family, especially the spouse, parents and children. They experience similar negative feelings as the addict - fear, anger, hurt, confusion, guilt, shame, hope followed by despair. Even their behavioral patterns become similar. Just as the addict tries various control strategies to reduce or stop using, the family members also begin to lie, manipulate and deceive in their attempts to control or cover up his habit. The family members are in desperate need of proper help, support and understanding.
There is Help!
Those close to the addict suffer the most. We ask the addict to seek help but soon realize that we need help. Many family members and friends have found it helpful to attend meetings specifically for them. Al-Anon and Nar-Anon are groups that offer support and help for the relatives and friends.
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Find a Family Group MeetingClick on one of the links below for more information.
Al-Anon Family Groups
The Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength and hope to solve their common problems.
Nar-Anon Family Groups
Family Members and Loved Ones
Half way houses, rehabs and treatment centers are not a cure or magic fix. Recovery is a process and it takes time. We have found that our clients rate of success is greatly increased when the family members and loved ones become part of their loved one's recovery process. As friend or family member, you are either a part of the problem or the solution. You can choose to be an active part of the solution. Please read "What is Addiction?" to learn how you can help your loved one. |
Photo from TheAlieness GiselaGiardino²³
