Are you struggling with addiction in your family? Do you have a friend that is falling into addiction quicker than you would ever have thought? Are you having a hard time understanding what is happening to your loved one? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you likely need some help for yourself. Even though you aren’t the one addicted to drugs or alcohol, getting help from a support group will be a great way for you to deal with the very strong feelings you are likely having.
Do treatment centers have support groups for loved ones of addicts? In some cases, the answer is yes. Let’s take a look at some information on this important subject.
Support for the addict in rehab
Patients in rehab will always have the support that they need while they are detoxing and going through the steps of the program. They will have therapists, counselors, doctors, and other support staff that they can reach out to when they are in rehab. Of course, they need this support tremendously during such a difficult time. However, what about family or friends? Are you struggling to come to terms with your loved one and their addiction? If so, you need a support group of your own that knows your struggles and concerns.
Do I need therapy?
Addiction is a problem that can and does affect anyone around the addict. You may have dealt with lying, theft, deceit, manipulation, anger, and depression- all from the addict themselves. This is especially true for parents of an addict or for children of an addicted parent. You need someone to help sort through the many conflicting feelings you have about the situation. Providing support for an addict, even when they are in recovery, is mentally and emotionally exhausting for most of us.
It’s normal to feel a large amount of anger, disappointment, and even hatred toward your loved one when they are using drugs or alcohol. These feelings occur when you have been struggling with their addiction, especially if it has been months or even years. That’s why you need help for yourself. It’s nothing to be ashamed of, and it will help you come to terms with your feelings.
Who can I talk to?
Luckily, there are plenty of support groups for those who have been dealing with an addict. One example is Al-Anon, a worldwide program that offers support for families of those addicted to alcohol. Another support group, Nar-Anon, offers meetings for family members who have been affected by addiction. You’ll likely be able to find meetings from both of these groups near your home.
While the above groups are just two examples of national groups, you may be looking for other groups in your area that can help. Many rehab centers do offer therapy services for those dealing with an addict. Don’t be afraid to call the centers in your area to find out what they offer. If they do not offer therapy or counseling sessions in-house, many will be able to point you in the right direction elsewhere.
Family therapy in rehab
Most treatment facilities offer family therapy sessions for patients who wish to start mending their relationships. In most cases, you won’t get to see your loved one until they have been in the program for at least a couple of weeks. Once they have been through detox and are going through the steps of the program, their therapist may want them to attend family therapy. In this case, you’ll travel to the center and sit in for therapy sessions with your loved one and a licensed professional.
Family therapy is one of the best ways to start airing your feelings in a controlled setting. Even if you feel like you can do without it, family therapy is important for the addict. You’ll both have the opportunity to air any grievances with a professional on hand to guide the session. It’s a perfect time to start mending your relationship with your loved one, so don’t hesitate to accept the invitation if it is offered to you.
We’re ready to help!
If you need to talk to someone regarding an addiction, we’re the right people to contact. Let us help you find support groups in your area that will help you understand addiction. Talking with others who are going through the same problems will be a huge help. Give us a call at 844-639-8371 when you’re looking for support groups in your area.