As many family members of people recovering from substance abuse are aware, the recovery process can be challenging, and the help of other family members can be extremely beneficial. In fact, one in ten people in America has used illicit drugs in the past month, and 1 in 15 have been heavy drinkers. Heroin abuse is on the rise. So, how do you support a family member in recovery? Here are some ways to help.

Support for family members of someone in recovery from substance abuse is often a necessity. Addicts are often accompanied by codependent behaviors and ambivalent emotions. In addition to the physical effects of addiction, family members also deal with the stress and uncertainty caused by their addicted loved one's drug or alcohol use. A combination of community groups and one-on-one therapy can help relieve some of the stress.

Another type of community-based recovery support is religious-based. This kind of group uses Christian scripture to create a recovery model centered around the acceptance of a higher power. Participants also benefit from the literature on how to beat addiction, such as the Bible. The model stresses the importance of accepting a higher power and celebrates recovery as a means of beating addiction. Members can share their stories and seek support from other people in the community with a similar situation.

The mental and emotional toll of substance abuse is felt by family members as well as the addicted individual. Observing the struggles of the addicted individual can lead to feelings of helplessness, anger, and fear. An exhausted family member is unable to maintain their own health or wellbeing. As a result, addicted family members are at risk of suffering from a variety of physical symptoms and mental health conditions.

While a substance-abusing parent's addiction is most troubling for the addicted person, the effects of the addiction on the entire family can be equally devastating. The children of the addict are often neglected or act out to distract attention from their parents. All of these factors contribute to a sense of confusion and fear in the home. Mentally and emotionally depleted family members may become apathetic and resentful towards the addict.

While there are no "magic pills" for recovery, family members of recovering addicts should surround themselves with other like-minded individuals. Support groups, community groups, and one-on-one counseling are all great ways to get the help you need. While recovering is difficult, family members can find solace by talking with people who have also been through the same challenges. Support groups can help members of the family find new ways to cope, and gain valuable knowledge and understanding from others.

Coping skills are tools that allow the addict to face the changes in their life. Addicts use drugs or alcohol to cope with the changes that accompany recovery. After rehab, however, they must learn new skills to manage the changes that come with drug or alcohol withdrawal. This is because coping skills can help the recovering addict return to a normal life. In addition, they can help the addict build a stronger foundation for their recovery.

Participation in treatment as a support for someone recovering from substance abuse can be an excellent way to learn more about the condition and encourage positive changes in the addict. Family members can become empowered to change and take responsibility for their loved one's actions. During treatment, they can learn about healthy boundaries, trigger management, and overcoming negative behavioral patterns. These behaviors are fundamental to recovery.

The family's support is essential in the recovery process of the addicted person. It helps the recovering person explain their behaviors and makes amends with those who care about them. Participation in treatment can reestablish connections and relationships and answer questions about addiction. A family involved in the recovery process can provide emotional and financial support to the recovering addict. For example, family members can participate in family counseling.