How Addictions Affect Family Members

by Linda L. Simmons, Psy.D.

Damaged Family Bonds Telling the addict what he has to do, where he can go, and with whom he can associate typically leads to angry shouting matches. The intent to redirect the addict away from his addiction is good, but ineffective. When it seems that every attempt to help their addicted loved one has failed, family members may withdraw in despair.http://www.netplaces.com/addiction-recovery/how-addictions-affect-family-members/damaged-family-bonds.htm

Dealing with Difficult Emotions
When painful emotions seem to dominate one's life, it's time to take action. Family members also need support, encouragement, and, many times, professional help. Recovery is not only the desired result for the addict, but also for families. Once family members recognize their own need for recovery, the process may begin.

In dealing with difficult emotions, family members must be able to separate their own emotions from those of the addict. As hard as it may be to accept, family members have no power to control what the addict feels or what she does. http://www.netplaces.com/addiction-recovery/how-addictions-affect-family-members/dealing-with-difficult-emotions.htm