How Can I Help a Family Member Who Is Recovering From Substance Abuse?

Published on: 08-04-22

As many family members of substance abusers are aware, the recovery process can be difficult, and the assistance of other family members can be extremely beneficial. In fact, one in every ten Americans has used illegal drugs in the last month, and one in every fifteen is a heavy drinker. Heroin addiction is on the rise. So, how do you help a family member who is in recovery? Here are some suggestions.


Family members of someone in recovery from substance abuse often require assistance. Addicts frequently exhibit codependent behaviors and ambivalent emotions. Family members must deal with the stress and uncertainty caused by their addicted loved one's drug or alcohol use in addition to the physical effects of addiction. Community groups and one-on-one therapy can help alleviate some of the stress.

Religious recovery support is another type of community-based recovery support. This type of group employs Christian scripture to develop a recovery model based on the acceptance of a higher power. Participants also benefit from addiction-recovery literature, such as the Bible. The model emphasizes accepting a higher power and celebrates recovery as a means of overcoming addiction. Members can share their experiences and seek support from others in the community who are in a similar situation.


Family members, as well as the addicted individual, bear the mental and emotional costs of substance abuse. Seeing the struggles of an addict can cause feelings of helplessness, anger, and fear. A tired family member is unable to look after their own health or well-being. As a result, addicted family members are at risk of developing a variety of physical and mental health problems.

While the addiction of a substance-abusing parent is most distressing for the addicted person, the effects of the addiction on the entire family can be equally devastating. Children of addicts are frequently neglected or act out to divert attention away from their parents. All of these elements contribute to a sense of bewilderment and fear in the home. Family members who are mentally and emotionally depleted may become apathetic and resentful of the addict.


While there are no "magic pills" for addiction recovery, family members of recovering addicts should surround themselves with other people who share their values. Support groups, community groups, and one-on-one counseling are all excellent places to seek assistance. While recovery is difficult, family members can find solace by talking with others who have faced similar challenges. Support groups can help family members find new ways to cope while also gaining valuable knowledge and understanding from others.

Coping skills are tools that enable addicts to deal with life's changes. Addicts use drugs or alcohol to cope with the changes that occur during the recovery process. However, after rehab, they must learn new skills to cope with the changes that come with drug or alcohol withdrawal. This is due to the fact that coping skills can assist a recovering addict in returning to a normal life. Furthermore, they can assist the addict in laying a stronger foundation for recovery.


Participating in treatment as a support person for someone recovering from substance abuse can be a fantastic way to learn more about the condition and encourage positive changes in the addict. Family members can gain the ability to change and accept responsibility for their loved ones' actions. They can learn about healthy boundaries, trigger management, and overcoming negative behavioral patterns during treatment. These behaviors are critical to recovery.

The family's support is critical in the addict's recovery process. It enables the recovering individual to explain their actions and make amends with those who care about them. Participation in treatment can help to reestablish connections and relationships while also providing answers to questions about addiction. A family member who is involved in the recovery process can offer the recovering addict emotional and financial support. Family members, for example, can take part in family counseling.