For Loved Ones

Addiction is accepted by the medical community as a chronic disease of the brain and the body. Many do not realize that addiction is also known as a “family disease.” While the active alcoholic or drug addict progressively worsens, family dysfunction begins. Family members can suffer psychological and physical repercussions from the addict’s behavior, such as depression, eating disorders, and loss of sleep. Unknowingly, the family can develop patterns of behavior that enable or help the drug addict or alcoholic continue his or her destructive behavior. The family may restrict their social contact in order to keep the addiction problem “under control” or a “secret.”

Alternatively, family dysfunction can lead to the manifestation of chemical dependency. The addicted person is often times called the “identified patient.” This means that although the addicted person is the one receiving treatment, multiple family members may require treatment for various disorders. Many disorders have a generational line that can be traced once the addict and the family members are in treatment. Unless the immediate family received treatment, positive change within the existing structure is difficult.

The disease of addiction infiltrates the core of the family unit destroying healthy lives. Everyone suffers. However, there are many ways for the family to actively engage in the recovery process, from setting up interventions to participating in family therapy.

Family Program
Our 4-day program, included in every patient’s treatment, brings the family to our facility for therapy and education.

Codependency
Codependency can destroy lives. Our family program can help alter the codependent dynamic that surrounds the active addict or alcohol. Therapy and education provide families with a chance to recover.

Family FAQ
Answers to common questions about a family member or a friend at Lakeview Health Systems can be found in this section.