When most people think of addiction, they of the struggles and pain that the person suffering from the addiction undergoes. However, addiction is unique in that while it may directly only affect one individual, it indirectly affects everyone around the addicted person. The roots of addiction spread out from the addicted individual and can easily and painfully affect everyone close to them. However, there are plenty of things you can do to mitigate the damage of addiction, both in the addicted individual and in your family.

Be There

There’s plenty you can do to help someone in your family who is addicted. You can listen to their problems, encourage attempts at recovery, and help make your home a safe and drug-free environment. Remember, you can’t be the one to “fix” their addiction. Healing from an addiction starts and ends with the addicted individual themselves and no one else. However, being there for your loved one is one of the most important and valuable things you can do as a family.

Care For Yourself

Sometimes, being there can be tough, and it’s okay to admit that. An addiction can easily damage the entire structure of a family. Trust, love, and security can all be in jeopardy if someone in your household is addicted, and sometimes this can simply be too much. You’re not alone. Due to how common these feelings actually are, many groups have stepped up to form support groups for both addicts and their families.

You’re Not Alone

These groups specialize in helping families understand and work through their feelings regarding their addicted loved one. Some groups even encourage families and their loves ones to work together, sometimes to just talk or even to discuss future treatments. The possibilities are endless, and can help give you and your family a solid structure and foundation from which to understand and work through the addiction of your loved one.

Look for groups in your local area and don’t be afraid to participate. You’ll learn a lot about your loved one, their addiction, and most importantly, yourself. Don’t feel guilty about your feelings. Instead, explore them in a healthy and welcoming environment.