Parents of addicted loved ones primarily have one goal: to safely withdraw and get treatment for their loved one’s addiction. They must become highly educated on addiction to understand what their loved one is facing. Family counseling is crucial to learn how to avoid relapse, support the addicted individual in recovery, and explore the reasons behind the addiction. Building a strong family unit to combat addiction is the ultimate recovery goal. Meanwhile, examining family history can provide insight into possible generational habits.
Are you a parent struggling with a loved one’s addiction? Call us now or visit our admissions page for support and guidance.
Addiction In The Family
Parents of child addicts may not be aware that addiction can be a generational illness. Genetics is the basis for many addictions. Genetics accounts for roughly 60% of the addictions to drugs and alcohol. Other influences can include environmental factors and the possibility of a co-occurring mental illness. Parents of child addicts need to be aware of the following:
- Parents who are addicts can expect their children to be eight times more likely to become addicted.
- Half of all child addicts also experience at least one mental illness.
- Roughly 20 million people in the US aged 12 and over have used illegal drugs within the last 30 days.
- The presence of treatment and recovery from addiction in the family can encourage other addicted family members to seek help.
Signs that Your Child is Addicted to Drugs
It’s common for parents of addicted loved ones to feel blindsided, yet they often sense that something is wrong. Many may try to overlook abnormal behaviors as a way to avoid facing the truth. However, when a loved one is struggling with addiction, the signs are usually evident. Physical signs of addiction can include:
- Red eyes or flu-like symptoms
- Inconsistent eating and sleeping habits
- Lethargy and fatigue
- Hyperactivity
- Inability to speak clearly
- Lack of coordination
- Shakiness
- Unexplained illnesses
Behavioral and emotional signs that point to addiction in a child can include:
- Self-isolation
- Changes in the peer group or friendships
- Loss of interest in usual hobbies
- Moodiness and irritability
- Depression or anxiety symptoms
- Secretive behaviors
- Poor school performance
- Immediate defensiveness or hostility when asked about drug use
- Missing money
- Being absent for periods
- Locked bedroom door
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Five Tips for Parents of a Child Addicts
Five no-nonsense tips for parents of addicted loved ones can begin the journey for treatment and recovery. Never ignore the problem; instead, work towards building trust and a strong supportive bond.
- Learn about addiction: Understanding addiction, detox, treatment, and recovery is vital. Educating yourself will support your stance and prepare you for the processes you will face with your addicted loved one.
- Connect with understanding peers: Support groups offer valuable resources. For example, Al-Anon helps family members of alcoholics, while Narcotics Anonymous supports those struggling with drug addiction.
- Attend family therapy sessions: Family therapy demonstrates to your loved one how much support they have. It helps build a strong family bond and teaches practical communication skills.
- Prepare and share meals as a family: Eating healthy meals together fosters conversation and connection. Involving your loved one in meal preparation can promote fun and laughter.
- Manage expectations: Understand that recovery is a process, and things may not happen as hoped. Setting realistic expectations can help prevent disappointment.
Tips for Talking to Your Child about Drugs
Talk to your child about drugs, alcohol, and the possibility of addiction. Education is the best weapon against drug or alcohol use through curiosity or experimentation. Always talk to your teenager when they are sober. Parents of child addicts are aware of their behaviors. However, if your child is high, they will not absorb the information you are offering them. Always make it clear that you want to help them and love them.
If a child feels attacked, they will likely close themselves off mentally and physically, making communication difficult. Parents of child addicts should understand that educating themselves about addiction as a medical illness and generational problem is crucial. It’s important to ask questions and truly listen to the responses. Inquire if the child understands why they began using drugs or alcohol. Children need to know there are healthy, positive ways to address emotions and feelings they may struggle to process.
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Find Addiction Treatment For Your Loved One In Atlanta, GA
Watching your child suffer from a medical illness like addiction can be heart-wrenching, but effective help is available. Our team of experienced addiction specialists is dedicated to working specifically with addicts, providing the expertise needed for successful recovery.
We offer a range of treatment options tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals, including medically supervised detox, inpatient residential treatment, and family therapy. Our supportive and nurturing environment allows your loved one to feel safe as they explore their challenges and work toward healing.
Recovery is a journey, and our goal is to empower both your loved one and your family with the tools needed for lasting sobriety. Call us today or visit our admissions page to learn more about our specialized treatment programs and how we can support your loved one’s path to health and wellness.