Family Therapy | Benefits and How it is Used
Addiction not only affects the individual themselves, but can have a profound impact on loved ones too. Studies have shown that around 1.8 million adults will be significantly affected by a relative’s substance abuse. This can lead to tension, broken trust and even the complete breakdown of relationships. Let’s not forget that childhood experiences can also play a role in the development of addiction, so it is important to work through these issues in a safe, supportive environment. Recovery Lighthouse offers you and your family this opportunity with our family programme.
Why is family addiction support important?
Family addiction support is a critical component of rehab treatment, as it addresses the impact of addiction on the family dynamic and promotes healing for both the individual struggling with substance use and their loved ones.
Some of the benefits of family therapy include:
- Improves relationships with loved ones
- Promotes a sense of connection
- Provides a stable support system
- Reduces the risk of relapse
- Reduces mental health issues
- Gives the opportunity to resolve family conflict
Family therapy can be an invaluable tool in addiction recovery, not only helping you to overcome your substance use disorder, but also helping the whole family to find peace and harmony.
What can I expect from a family therapy session?
If you are considering family therapy as a part of addiction treatment, you may be wondering what to expect from a typical session. At Recovery Lighthouse, sessions are facilitated by a fully qualified therapist who will guide the conversation and help family members communicate effectively.
During family therapy, open and honest communication is prioritised, and family members are encouraged to express their thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental and respectful manner. Family therapy sessions may include skill-building exercises to help family members develop healthy coping mechanisms and set realistic expectations for the future.
It is normal to feel…
It is normal for family members to experience a range of emotions in response to their loved one’s addiction. Some common emotions that family members may experience include:
- Anger: Family members may feel angry at their loved one for their addictive behaviour and the negative impact it has had on the family. They may also feel angry at themselves for not being able to “fix” the problem.
- Guilt: Family members may feel guilty for not recognising the signs of addiction sooner or for enabling their loved one’s addictive behaviour.
- Fear: Family members may fear for their loved one’s safety and well-being, as well as for the future of the family.
- Shame: Family members may feel ashamed of their loved one’s addiction and might worry about perceived judgement from others.
- Helplessness: Family members may feel helpless and unsure of how to support their loved one through their addiction.
Family addiction support can provide a safe environment for family members to express these emotions and find healthy solutions. With the guidance of a therapist, you will be able to implement strategies that can benefit your relationships and ease any anxieties that you may feel.
Family therapy allows you to…
Incorporating family therapy into addiction treatment allows you and your loved ones to work together to address any issues and rebuild their relationships. With our family programme, you can:
- Understand the addiction: Family therapy can help family members understand addiction, its causes and triggers. This understanding can help families develop more empathy and compassion towards their loved one as they work together towards recovery.
- Improve communication: Addiction can lead to breakdowns in communication, with family members often feeling unheard, ignored or angry. Family therapy provides a safe and non-judgmental space for family members to express their feelings and concerns. It also allows you to share your individual experiences. Through therapy, families can learn to communicate more effectively and work towards resolving conflicts in a healthy manner.
- Identify enabling behaviours: Often, family members unintentionally enable their loved one’s addiction by providing financial or emotional support that allows them to continue their addictive behaviour. Family therapy can help to pinpoint enabling behaviours and work towards setting healthy boundaries that support their loved one’s recovery.
- Foster support and accountability: Recovery from addiction is a long and challenging journey, but having the support of family members can make a significant difference. Through family therapy, family members can learn how to be supportive without being controlling or judgmental, also offering a sense of accountability.
Recovery Lighthouse is here for you
Addiction thrives off of loneliness, conflict and negativity, but our goal is to bring families together, giving you the vital support you need to maintain sobriety. Addiction may be isolating, but recovery is not a solitary journey.
Recovery Lighthouse understands the distinct challenges that families face throughout the recovery process and is here to support you. Our treatment programme recognises the profound influence familial support has during addiction rehab and is committed to providing a nurturing environment for your relationships to heal and flourish.
If you would like to take advantage of our wide range of therapies, get in touch today.
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