Drug addiction is not a problem that exists in isolation and it is rarely a disease that only affects a single individual. Families of people battling with drug addiction are often affected as much as the addict. This is why one of the most important components of Malibu drug treatment is family therapy.
The Roots of Addiction
One thing to keep in mind is that addiction has a high rate of comorbidity with issues like post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental illnesses. Some issues with addiction often originate from traumatic childhood experiences such as physical and verbal abuse. The roots of addiction in many cases can come from deep seated issues that need to be addressed in treatment. Everyone has different experiences with addiction and the causes can vary dramatically with each patient.
Sometimes addiction can rise from isolation and a lack of connection with others. Issues with depression can cause people to become withdrawn and isolated from friends and family which can worsen their addictive habits. Addiction can happen for many different reasons and therapy can help an addict find the root of their problem.
Effect on Family Life
Whatever may have caused their addiction, an addict’s behavior can have a strong effect on family life. The struggles within the family may not always be outward conflict but it can come through small things such as an increasing lack of contact or conversation and growing distance among family members.
Whether they are obvious or more subtle problems, addiction tends to put a strain on relationships. This can be problematic, especially since social support systems are a major factor in maintaining sobriety in Malibu drug treatment. An addict, even when they are involved in recovery may find it challenging to deal with family members who don’t understand the treatment or the addiction.
Family Helps in Recovery
Among the numerous studies that link the importance of family in cases of addiction is a 2001 study published in The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse. This study found that Multi-Dimensional Family Therapy had superior outcomes than therapy involving only peers, or those that involved multiple families.
Malibu drug treatment uses an evidence-based system of family diagnosis, making sure that family is included in treatment and education. This helps them to understand and address behaviors that, unknowingly, may have contributed to the person’s addiction. This is particularly important in the prevention of relapse.
Ultimately, Malibu drug treatment hopes to foster a family environment that is supportive, not intrusive nor condemning. Drug addiction, after all, is a problem with many layers. Family is a part of so many aspects of an addict’s issues that they are truly vital to achieving recovery.