Holidays Highlight Addiction

For many, the holidays highlight substance abuse problems in the home.

It’s holiday time and that means “family time.” While the commercials and TV shows portray cozy scenes, that’s not the reality for many.

In fact, nearly 17 million (or almost one in four) children live in a household where a parent or other adult is a binge or heavy drinker. At the same time, approximately 13 percent of children (9.2 million) live in a home where a parent or other adult uses illicit drugs.

The numbers are staggering, and the negative effects of addiction aren't limited to the individual who is abusing drugs and alcohol. That means that the addicted person isn’t the only one in need of help. Recovery extends to the entire family. While the focus in usually on the options available to those in need of treatment, support also exists for those affected by a family member's addiction.

The addict is usually the star of the show in a dysfunctional family, grabbing the spotlight in the form of the majority of the attention and mental energy. The supporting cast all play roles as well, in the form of caretakers, heroes, scapegoats and more.

For the family of an addicted person, one of the biggest issues can be accepting the fact that the addict’s sobriety is not something family members are responsible for or can control. Once they realize that, they can focus on understanding the recovery process and learn to let go of co-dependent habits. There are groups that family members can join for support. Talking to other families going through a similar situation can help as well. Finally, books for family members of addicts can also offer support. The important thing is for family to find support in some form because addiction affects far more than just the addicted.

Drug Addiction Rehab

If you or someone you love needs help with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, call The Canyon’s toll free helpline, 877.714.1319. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, insurance, etc.