Addiction is a problem that directly affects 23.5 million individuals across the United States. While treatment for addicts can be beneficial in helping them overcome their disease, it's important to recognize that addiction can take a toll on the friends and family members of addicts as well.
If you are close to someone who is addicted to drugs or alcohol, you may find that you are experiencing negative side effects. Here are three reasons why you should seek out professional support during the recovery process, even if you aren't the one with an addiction.
1. A support program can help you establish the ability to trust others again.
When you are close to an addict, your ability to trust can be compromised. Addiction can cause your loved one to engage in deceptive behavior (like lying or stealing), and you may find that your loved one has a difficult time following through when they say they will do something.
Having your trust broken repeatedly by an addict can cause you to begin questioning the motives and trustworthiness of others in your life. Participating in a support program designed to target the friends and family members of addicts going through the recovery process will help you learn to trust once again.
2. A support program will help you learn how to stop enabling your loved one's addiction.
Statistics show that only 2.5 million addicts receive treatment. Many addicts are never forced to confront their problems because a loved one engages in enabling behavior that allows their addiction to continue. If you find yourself exhibiting signs of enabling (like covering for your addicted loved one or putting the needs of your addicted loved one before your own), you may find it difficult to stop on your own.
Participating in a support program designed to address the needs of the friends and family members of addicts will help you stop enabling your loved one's addiction as they go through the recovery process without feeling guilt or remorse.
3. A support program will help you identity and address any signs of PTSD.
Living with an addict in your life can be stressful. Many friends and family members of addicts find that they suffer from some post-traumatic stress regarding events surrounding their loved one's addiction.
Whether you experience recurring nightmares after finding a loved one who has overdosed, or you are struggling to overcome the covert abuse that addicts often inflict on those closest to them, you likely have PTSD. Allowing a support program to help you overcome your PTSD will prevent your loved one's addiction from having a negative effect on your future.
If you are struggling to deal with a loved one's addiction and recovery, seek help from a reputable support program. For example, you can see if the rehab center your friend or loved one is working with offers group therapy or support programs for close friends and family. For more information, talk with recovery centers in your area, like Olalla Recovery Centers.
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