Using Al Anon Family Groups for Support

Addiction is rarely a condition that impacts just one person. Instead, a single drug or alcohol addiction can have adverse effects on the entire family and even their whole community. When a person struggling with addiction needs recovery treatment, his or her family members might also need support. That’s where an addiction recovery group steps in. Al Anon family groups are one way to help the whole family achieve stability and happiness.

Learning How to Communicate After Addiction

One of the worst effects of addiction is that it can damage close relationships. Specifically, it can cause communication problems. Loved ones may want to help, but they often lack the knowledge or words to offer their support. Those who are struggling with addiction might also fight to know what to say in challenging situations.

Al Anon family groups teach family members how to re-establish communication with one another. Sometimes this is as simple as learning new techniques, or it can involve a mediator. The goal is to build bridges and connect with loved ones in new and better ways than before. It also helps family members dealing with another’s addiction take care of themselves.

Creating a System of Support Rather than Enabling

The overwhelming majority of families want to help their addicted loved ones. Even in the midst of an addiction, family members report wishing to help but not knowing what to do. Unfortunately, some family members turn to enabling behaviors rather than helping.

There is a fine line between enabling someone’s addiction and helping them beat that same addiction. In family therapy programs, participants can learn as much as possible about the differences. While giving someone money or lying on their behalf might help them in the short term, it ultimately furthers their addiction and negative behaviors. True help means getting loved ones the help they need to get sober and stay sober for a lifetime.

Al Anon Family Groups Can Work Through Underlying Issues

It is rare that addiction crops up out of the blue. Typically, it is a result of genetic factors, personality, and any underlying issues. Often, these underlying and genetic issues can apply to more than one family member.

For example, an entire family might have suffered through a shared trauma. While just one person deals with addiction, others are just as susceptible to substance abuse in the future. By exploring these underlying issues and how they impact the whole family, everyone gets better.

Family Therapy and Addiction Treatment at Beaches Recovery

At Beaches Recovery, the whole family can find a way to get involved and get support. There are family therapy groups where loved ones can learn how to communicate and connect with those struggling with addiction. Also, clients can expect a comprehensive approach to recovery that includes all of the following strategies and treatment methods:

• EMDR therapy
• Dialectical behavioral therapy
• Trauma therapy
• Mindfulness-based treatment
• 12-step recovery program

Al Anon family groups are just one way that families can be a part of the recovery process. Family members can be the key to a great support system during and after rehab. Call Beaches Recovery at 866.605.0532 to start planning how you’ll enjoy the rest of your life.