For better or worse, you are a product of your relationship with your family. You grew up watching and learning from them, so it makes sense that you will pick up some of their habits, good or bad. The benefits of a family therapy program can help you understand your addiction and help your family learn how they can be a significant part of your recovery. There are many benefits of family therapy when combined with addiction treatment programs.
At Arkview Recovery Center, our addiction treatment programs can help you no matter what stage of recovery you are currently facing. From detoxing to outpatient programs, we will be there every step of the way. Also, your family will be a powerful part of your journey toward sustainable, life-long recovery. If you or a family member is struggling with addiction, call 717.744.0756 or complete our online form today to learn about the many benefits of a family therapy program.
Benefits of a Family Therapy Program
You may wonder why family therapy is important when only one person has a substance use disorder. The reality is that substance use disorders and addiction can have a ripple effect throughout the family, damaging relationships and making it hard for everyone to heal. Here are some benefits of family counseling one may not immediately think about.
1. Understanding Addiction
Addiction is a mental health disorder that can ruin individuals and families. Many people do not see addiction as a mental health disorder but as a social disease. Drug and alcohol addiction changes your brain chemistry and the way you think. A patient fully understands what their addiction is doing to them mentally and physically but cannot do anything to stop it, as the cravings are too powerful.
During your family therapy program, you will learn about addiction and its effects on the body.
2. Open Communication
Talking about addiction can be intimidating. Many parents do not want to admit that they are partially responsible for their child’s addiction and don’t know how to cope with those feelings. Your family therapy program will teach you how to talk about your addiction openly.
Once you openly talk about addiction instead of ignoring it, you open the door to healing and restoring broken relationships.
3. Restoring Relationships
Having healthy relationships in your life is essential for your general well-being. We are social creatures and want to be around peers and loved ones. One of the critical components in effective recovery is forgiving yourself for your actions and having frank discussions with those you have hurt through your addiction.
4. Understanding Root Causes of Addiction
The key to sustainable recovery is understanding the root cause of your addiction. What drove you to start using drugs or alcohol in the first place? Was it due to a traumatic event such as childhood abuse, family conflict, or other issues? A family therapy program will help you identify and face those underlying issues so that you can begin healing from them.
Family therapy is the perfect place to rebuild relationships that will help build a stronger family bond.
The Relationship Between Family Therapy and Addiction Recovery
Involving your family in your addiction recovery can give you an advantage in succeeding with your recovery. Family can often be the cause of addiction, but they can also be your strongest supporters with proper therapy.
Anger, fear, and frustration can prevent parents and siblings from unintentionally hindering your recovery progress. Talking about addiction and the cause behind it can be very uncomfortable to bring up. During your family therapy program, you will be encouraged to:
- Talk about feelings and emotions in a safe environment
- Understand addiction and the importance of mental health
- Discuss family dynamics and conflicts
- Forgive and start healing broken relationships
Family therapy can be a considerable part of your recovery process by providing the support, understanding, and empathy needed to break free from addiction.
Root Causes of Addiction
The root cause of addiction can be hard to pinpoint. At Arkview Recovery Center, we understand that each patient is different and requires a personalized approach to effective recovery. Our team will work with you to identify the emotions, issues, or events that led to your substance use disorder. We want to help you uncover the root cause so you can start your journey to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Some common reasons someone turns to substance use to cope include:
- Trauma and PTSD—Experiencing a traumatic event can lead to developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This condition can cause someone to use drugs or alcohol to cope with the pain.
- Social pressures—Whether peer pressure or family expectations, social pressures can be challenging to manage and lead someone to substance use.
- Mental health disorders—Sometimes, mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder can lead someone to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol.
By understanding the root causes of addiction, you can better understand your own situation and create an effective recovery plan.
Rebuild Relationships with Family Therapy at Arkview Recovery Center
Family is crucial in maintaining your recovery throughout the years. At Arkview Recovery Center, we understand the benefits of a family therapy program and how it can help you reach your goal of life-long, sustainable recovery. We have addiction treatment programs that can help you no matter the severity of your addiction and your needs, including:
- Detox program
- Residency program
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Medication-assisted treatment
If you or a family member is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, call 717.744.0756 or complete our online form today to learn more about the benefits of a family therapy program and how it can help your addiction recovery.
