Mutual help groups family support in addiction recovery are also widely available to aid family members of persons with SUD (e.g., Al-Anon), and a few studies based on member surveys have reported gains in member self-care (e.g., Timko et al., 2016). This area of recovery practice appears poised to host rigorous studies of family member service access and outcomes among families of youth with SUD. CRAFT (discussed above; Smith & Meyers, 2007) is a provider-delivered intervention sometimes advertised as effective for improving the personal well-being of parents of youth, or spouses of adults, with SUD. However, few studies have rigorously examined CRAFT impacts on the wellness of significant others (Archer et al., 2020), and findings to date are mixed (e.g., Bischof et al., 2016; Kirby et al., 2017). The field would benefit from additional research on CRAFT and other professional approaches for addressing stress and coping mechanisms, behavioral health problems, and general wellness among family members affected by youth SUD. Because addiction is a chronic and relapsing disorder (McLellan et al., 2000), self-management during daily routines is critical for treatment success.
GateHouse Treatment That Understands Family Support Matters in Addiction Recovery
For example, stumbling upon burnt spoons and used syringes can create paralyzing feelings of fear and shock. Recovery from addiction brings about significant changes not only for the individual but for the entire family dynamic. As one family member strives to maintain their sobriety, others must adjust to new roles, responsibilities, and ways of interacting. This adjustment period can be a time of growth, as families learn to navigate the complexities of post-recovery life together.
The role of spiritual growth in addiction treatment
She highlights how an end to substance use behaviors is just the beginning, and many other challenges can be experienced by family members during the first years of sobriety. In her book “The Alcoholic Family in Recovery,” Stephanie Brown takes a close, research-based look at the journey from alcohol use to recovery within the family dynamic. When you live with alcohol use disorder, positive outcomes often involve the entire family. To our knowledge there are no evidence-based screening approaches in which family members are systematically recruited to serve as sources of information on youth SU problems. Regardless of your situation, we will help you in finding your own personalized treatment solutions – whether that’s our program or another – at no cost or obligation to you.
- And there is clearly a market for, but scant research on, DTC resources designed to improve parenting habits as a facet of SUD recovery management (see Becker et al., 2017).
- Family involvement plays a pivotal role in enhancing the effectiveness of addiction treatment and promoting long-term recovery.
- For example, while the person is receiving treatment, you may see them less while still trusting that they will have everything they need to get healthy.
- Studies show that family involvement in substance use disorder treatment can lead to better outcomes.
- Our programs and services equip and empower you and your family members to work through the chaos you’ve experienced, understand how to set healthy boundaries, and rebuild trusting relationships.
- Supporters also respect boundaries and understand that their loved one’s journey is ultimately their own.
How to celebrate milestones in your recovery journey
In this article, we explore how families can support the path to sobriety, the various dynamics, and the resources available for both the individual and their loved ones. 📞 Contact ATS today to learn more about our family therapy programs and how we can support your loved one’s journey to lasting sobriety. Setting boundaries involves clearly defining what behaviors are acceptable and what are not, which can be pivotal for both the individual in drug addiction treatment recovery and their family. For instance, a family member may decide not to provide financial support that enables substance use, thereby encouraging accountability.
Families have the potential to be the bedrock of resilience, facilitating a smoother transition to a healthier, substance-free life. Emotional support from family members can provide the encouragement and motivation needed to overcome addiction. Knowing that loved ones believe in their ability to recover can empower individuals to stay committed to their treatment plans. Studies show that social support, especially from family members, drastically increases an individual’s https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/dealing-with-internal-and-external-relapse-triggers/ chances to achieve and maintain long-term recovery. Co-dependency and enabling behaviors, wherein family members inadvertently support and enable the addictive behavior, can hinder the recovery process. Codependent relationships, marked by excessive reliance and unhealthy dynamics, can impede the individual’s ability to develop independence and self-sufficiency in recovery.
