Involvement Of Family In Realation To Substance Use Disorders

Involvement of Family In Relation To Substance Use Disorders
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Involvement of Family In Relation To Substance Use Disorders
Since time immemorial substance use disorders have hit the media and the public at large. The after effects that come along are extreme and at times fatal if not taken care of immediately. Substance abuse is not restricted to any particular age group, and anyone can be an addict. In a family, however, one has an advantageous tool which if used perfectly can help to break the cycle of addiction. Addicts often strive to hide their malaise, but one can only hide it for so long. According to Robertson et al. (2010), “the family environment is another important determinant of alcohol and drug abuse among adolescents.” The researchers continue to state that even though the above is true, “family support may also serve as a protective factor.” Charity always begins at home and substance use addicts can also find help by looking to their families. The truth is, families have a central role in the treatment of any particular health problem especially in substance use treatment.
No one can exist in isolation but as part of a family. Everyone in a family must, therefore, contribute or has a role to play for the family to be considered functional. One way in which families can be thought of as a system of roles is by considering the communication lines within. Every family has essential communication channels, and if these are broken, families become dysfunctional. Damaged relationships emanate, and the thought of trying to repair or replenish the broken channels become difficult. Parents become disconnected with their children, and the vice versa is also true. Children, mostly teenagers, therefore, engage in all kinds of behavior including substance abuse and slowly stride down the abyss of addiction.
Families are also as Robertson et al. (2010) states a protective unit. In a family, people protect each other and always strive to ensure the best for each person. Families do not discriminate and will always put the interests of their loved ones ahead of their own. Additionally, the involvement of the family in patients with substance use disorders is very crucial as it appears to be critical in safeguarding the effects of stress on substance use disorders. Family support help in breaking the cycle of addiction. Consistent monitoring of an addict’s behavior enables one to note the progress made and what role one needs to play to hasten a loved one’s recovery.
The other role a family is expected to play is to show love and concern for an individual. In a family, everyone has a place and should never be made to feel as though they are outsiders. Each member is indeed responsible for the other, and everyone should be made to feel at home at any moment. Having a sense of belonging is indeed one way of knitting a strong family. Ro...