When you think of addiction, your mind probably first thinks of the person that is actually dependent on the substance. Several areas of their life can be affected by addiction, internally and externally. There are several physical and mental short-term and long-term effects on one's body and mind.

Addiction has an impact on the user, but it also has a tremendous effect on the people who are close to them. Have you ever considered addiction's impact on that person's family? Here's how addiction is a family disease.

Effects of Addiction on the Family

Addiction doesn't just affect the user; it affects the entire family. Friends or family members of addicts are often left feeling helpless, angry, and confused by the addict's constant adverse decisions and choices. That's why addiction is actually known as a family disease.

Other emotions that addiction causes within families are feelings of shame and denial. Family members need help and support just as much as addicted individuals.

Symptoms of Addiction on Family Members

Family members can often display these common symptoms when dealing with an addicted loved one:

• Poor self-care

• Inability to say "no"

• No boundaries, especially relating to their own time, money, and energy

• No accountability

• Obsession with the addict

• Attempts to control the addict

• Blaming oneself

Similarities Between an Addict and Their Family

There are common behaviors that an addict and their family members share. Both an addict and their family will show signs of the following:

• Denial

• Obsession

• Compulsion

• Emotional and Physical Illnesses

The only differences between these are obsession and compulsion. An addict's obsession lies within their ability to use. On the other hand, a family will become obsessed with the person using as a way to try to help them.

Similarly, in the case of compulsion, an addict has the compulsion to use. The family will have a compulsion to try to control, help, or fix the addict.

Successful Strategies for Recovery

Don't Try to Fix Them

You can't fix someone struggling with addiction. You also can't force someone struggling to get the help that they need. Ultimately, it's their own decision to make. All you can do is be there for them.

Work Together

You'll get further if you work together. Set aside any conflicts or disagreements and come together. If you're supporting one another, you'll be more willing and able to come together as one support system.

Hold Them Accountable

Try not to play the blame game. Blaming the individual or yourself won't help anyone. Instead, set boundaries and expectations for everyone. You can't change past actions, but you can change how you respond moving forward.

Use Your Time and Energy Wisely

When it comes to trying to help someone with addiction, it's easy to put yourself and other relationships in your life to the side to only focus on the main person in need. As a family, focus on having clear and open communication with one another to hold each other accountable. You all share the same goal of wanting to help and lead your loved one towards recovery.

Seek Help With Therapy

Family members living with an addict need help just as much as the addict themselves. Since addiction affects the entire family, everyone should play a part in the treatment process. This includes therapy.

I provide counseling for adults who have depression, substance use problems, and trauma. I also provide counseling for family members who are impacted by the disease of addiction. Let’s talk about the changes you want to make in your life. To connect with me, you can use the contact page or schedule a free phone consultation.

To learn how addiction is a disease, consider reading Understanding Addiction: Know Science, No Stigma by Drs. Chuck Smith and Jason Hunt. It’s available on Amazon.