Addiction is a disease that can wreak havoc in an individual’s life. However, some silent sufferers also take the brunt of this disease. They are most often the family members, friends, and loved ones of the addict. Many loved ones suffer from emotional and sometimes even physical trauma when dealing with an addict and may require help to heal from these emotional wounds.
Read on to know how addiction can negatively affect your family and friends.
Loss of trust
Trust between family members and friends is the glue that holds the relationship together. However, it is often seen that trust is the first thing lost between loved ones and the addict. It usually happens because of behavioral fluctuations such as anger, secrecy, and the lies addicts tell to cover up their addiction. It is one of the most challenging things to build again during recovery.
Broken relationships/divorce
Another typical result of addiction in families and relationships is breaking up or divorces in couples. Often due to aggression and abuse from the addicted spouse. Emotional trauma also leads to the same end.
Generational trauma
Another common impact of addiction in families is generational trauma in children. If children live with parents who are addicts, they are often faced with distressing situations and feelings, hindering their growth and development. Children who grow up in such families end up developing mental health disorders. They are also prone to external influences and have substance abuse disorders.
Poor self-image
Children growing up in families having addicts may develop a poor self-image. They may blame themselves for their parent’s addiction problems and consider that their actions led to their addiction. Such kids also develop unhealthy attachments in adulthood due to traumatic childhood experiences.
Financial problems
Another common problem that families with addiction problems face is financial trouble. Addicts often use the money saved for family emergencies and supporting family members to buy drugs or solve legal problems caused by drugs. Families may have to pay off the debts incurred by the addicted member, causing financial stress and burdening other members.
Risk of disease
A family with a drug addict also faces the risk of diseases such as Hep-c and AIDS. If the addicted member uses infected needles to inject drugs, they may also get infected and expose family members to the disease.
Addiction may come across as a disease that affects only an individual in the first go, but a deeper look shows that it has the power to destroy entire families. If you or your loved ones suffer from substance abuse disorder, immediately seek help.
About Iris Wellness Group/Chattanooga Drug & Alcohol Rehab
If you or your loved ones are struggling with drug abuse or mental health disorders, Iris Wellness Group is here to help you. We believe everyone deserves a second chance, and finances should stop no one from getting medical help. So we accept most major insurances. Our Tennessee recovery center offers treatments for various substance abuse and mental health disorders. You can reach us at 423-541-0656 or fill out our contact form to learn more about inpatient mental health facilities. Get your free insurance verification here.