The therapists at our Durham rehab center will always ask people to bring their closest family members to the first appointment. We will then explain to them how important family involvement is in addiction recovery.
After all, loved ones also experience the negative effects of someone’s addiction. Thus, they need to heal together and find ways to move forward toward a drug-free life.
Family Is at the Core of Modern Addiction Recovery Plans
In the past, therapists would focus on the patient alone. However, recent research studies show that the best approach is getting the immediate family involved. There is still much to be learned about the role of family dynamics in addiction. But it’s safe to say that this approach offers addicts more chances to recover and stay sober in the long term.
Here are the most important ways in which families can help during addiction recovery.
1. Emotional Support
A person who battles addiction needs emotional support at every step of the journey towards sobriety. Many people fear losing their family’s love and respect if they find out about their addiction. Others believe that they are no longer worthy to be loved.
By proving them wrong and continuing to be there for them, family members allow the addict to:
- Acknowledge their problem
- Ask for help
- Join a therapy program
- Stay sober in the future.
2. Motivation
Resuming normal family ties is a powerful motivating factor for people who suffer from addiction. Also, knowing that someone still believes in them – after they stopped believing in themselves – is a powerful form of motivation.
Support from family is often one of the few things that help people at our Durham rehab center cope with the worst withdrawal symptoms and the deepest anxiety and depression. Through constant family involvement in the therapy process, people find the proverbial straw to hold on to when they feel like losing the battle with addiction.
3. Open Communication
Communication is essential for the healing of the entire family. Our therapists will speak openly with family members about what recovery involves, how to remove triggers from the home environment, and how to cope with the risk of relapse.
4. Providing Positive Role Models
Making an effort to create a safe environment for someone after they complete rehab treatment is extremely important. This may involve not keeping alcohol at home, or even making a collective commitment to give up drinking.
Seeing others going to such lengths for their well-being will inspire someone to stay strong and resist temptations in the future.
5. Long-Term Support
After completing a drug addiction treatment, the family plays a key role in helping their loved one avoid relapsing. By celebrating their victories and being there for them during the difficult time, they are an invaluable ally for long-term sobriety.
Also, family members are welcome to reach out to us when they feel overwhelmed or do not know how to prevent their loved one’s relapse. We are also here for you for long-term support and advice.
Start a Drug-Free Life at Our Durham Rehab Center!
The therapists at our Durham rehab center know that addiction is something that affects everyone in a family unit. This is why we encourage all the family members to take part in therapy sessions and start the healing process together with their loved ones.
Get over substance abuse and start a new, fulfilling family life. Call us today at 984-223-5341 to schedule your initial appointment!
