Codependency and Addiction

You don’t have to actually abuse alcohol or drugs to play a role in the problem of addiction. Family members of those battling addiction often contribute to the problem in the form of codependency. When family members make decisions concerning what the other person needs, they take on a variety of roles from enabler to scapegoat to mascot to hero.  

 The goal of treatment and recovery is not only to help the addicted individual address his or her substance abuse problem and the underlying issues, but to help that person’s support system become whole and healthy as well.

 People become familiar with and dependent on the role they play in families. That can make these roles very deeply ingrained and hard to surrender. But in overcoming long-established (and unhealthy!) family roles, you will begin to overcome issues as well.

The goal is for each to person to become independent, and then approach the substance addiction recovery as a group of individuals, rather than as people playing different parts. Whole, independent people can freely contribute to the recovery of the person overcoming the addiction, while a person playing a part can only perform his or her specific role.

 The best place to start in this process is with yourself. Be honest about your strengths and weaknesses. Give up the goal of being perfect. Build on what you have. As you gain insight and understanding about the process and who each member is within it, the task becomes easier.

 Addiction Treatment at The Canyon

 If you or someone you love needs help with drug or alcohol addiction, call The Canyon at the toll-free number on our homepage. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.