Addiction and the Family
Addiction is the epitome of the family disease.
Every family member is regularly impacted by
a loved one's addiction. It governs the
family's interaction, decision-making,
and direction. Significant dysfunction ensues,
ultimately progressing to a point whereby the
entire family unit adapts to the addiction. Although
each family member is compromised in some fashion,
invariably, individuals become “comfortable” with
their degree of dysfunction rather than seeking
help. This merely serves to perpetuate the dysfunction
until some major crisis occurs which dictates
treatment.
Unfortunately, the damage caused by addiction
is not always reversible. Therefore, it is imperative
that family members seek treatment before the
crisis occurs so as to limit or even avoid potential
damage. Accessing appropriate treatment validates
the feelings and concerns of each family member.
Furthermore, it often provides the impetus for
the addicted individual to seek help in confronting
their addiction.
If you or a loved one has a problem with addiction,
get the help that you need at Penn Addiction
Medicine.
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