Alcohol causes more than just trouble for the person drinking, especially with prolonged alcohol misuse. Because addiction can negatively affect several areas of a person’s life, alcohol addiction often has profound effects on family and friends as well. However, alcohol addiction treatment can make a difference. Contact Woodland Recovery Center today at 662.222.2989 or online for more information about our programs and services and how we can help.
The Reality of Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction is a pervasive issue that affects individuals from all walks of life, often leading to devastating consequences. Many people struggle with cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which can make it difficult to quit without support. The impact of addiction extends beyond the individual, often straining relationships with family and friends, creating emotional turmoil and leading to financial hardships. Furthermore, the societal stigma surrounding alcohol addiction can cause feelings of shame and isolation, preventing individuals from seeking help. Acknowledging the reality of alcohol addiction is crucial in fostering understanding and promoting effective treatment options.
5 Effects of Alcohol Addiction on Loved Ones
1. Damaged Family Relationships
One way in which alcoholism affects families is in damaged relationships. Families of people affected by alcohol misuse often struggle to create strong emotional bonds, even within their family unit. This starts with the parents. In one study from the University at Buffalo, heavy drinking was connected to lower marital satisfaction. The study also found that alcoholism increased the risk of negative interactions, especially among couples. In addition, people battling alcoholism tend to lie about their condition, minimizing its effect on the family. This destroys trust and makes it difficult for other family members to build strong relationships with the individual.
2. Developmental Issues in Neglected Children
Children of parents who struggle with alcoholism are at higher risk for cognitive, behavioral, and emotional problems. Since an estimated 6.6 million children live in households where alcoholism is present, this is a significant concern. Sadly, parents who are struggling with alcohol addiction are often neglectful of both the physical and emotional needs of their children. This leads to serious developmental issues for the kids. Some of the problems children experience in homes where alcoholism is present include:
- Academic problems
- Anxiety and depression
- Poor emotional development
- Difficulty with intimate relationships as adults
- A tendency to be dishonest
3. Domestic Abuse
One of the most sobering effects of alcoholism is an increased risk for domestic abuse within the family. Abuse tied to alcoholism can be either emotional or physical in nature. People battling alcoholism may insult their family members, manipulate them, or humiliate them. These are all forms of emotional abuse. Physical violence is also a serious issue. The World Health Organization reports that 55 percent of physical assault cases between intimate partners occurred when the perpetrator had been drinking. Because alcohol use lowers their self-control levels by affecting cognitive and physical functioning, people who drink are more prone to acting violently when frustrated.
4. Drained Family Finances
The habit of consuming alcohol on a regular basis is expensive. While the total amount spent on alcohol will vary depending on the frequency and type chosen, the costs add up. It is not uncommon for someone battling this addiction to spend over $1,000 a month on alcohol. That is money that the family could use in other ways, and this financial cost takes a toll on the family’s overall well-being.
5. Physical and Mental Health Issues
Finally, a battle with alcoholism affects the physical and mental health of most members of the family. The individual fighting addiction will deal with physical health issues because of the impact of excessive alcohol consumption. Some common problems include liver disease, digestive system problems, damage to the brain, and risk for stroke. Mental health problems are also a risk for these families. The anxiety and stress of alcoholism for a family will wear down the emotional health of all involved. Family members of those fighting alcoholism may also struggle with guilt and feelings that they somehow are the cause of their loved one’s disorder.
How Treatment Can Help
Seeking treatment for alcohol addiction can be a transformative step not just for the individual struggling with it but also for their loved ones. Professional support and structured programs provide the necessary tools and resources to help individuals overcome their dependence on alcohol, fostering a healthier lifestyle.
Treatment programs often include a combination of therapy, support groups, and medical intervention, helping individuals navigate the complexities of recovery. Moreover, these programs can significantly improve family dynamics by addressing the relational strains caused by addiction.
Here are some key benefits of treatment for individuals and their families:
- Emotional support – Treatment programs often include therapy sessions that help address underlying emotional issues, improving mental health for both the individual and their family members.
- Skill development – Individuals learn coping strategies and life skills that promote sobriety and healthier decision-making, benefitting their everyday interactions with family.
- Improved relationships – Recovery often includes family therapy options, allowing family members to communicate better and rebuild trust that may have been lost during alcoholism.
- Enhanced awareness – Treatment educates the family about addiction, reducing stigma and fostering compassion, thus creating a more supportive home environment.
- Stronger support network – By participating in group therapy or community support groups, both the individual and their family can connect with others who share similar experiences, enhancing their support system.
- Financial management – Treatment can include financial counseling, helping families to budget better, and redirecting funds that were previously spent on alcohol toward healthier pursuits.
The recovery journey, while challenging, offers opportunities for growth and healing that can lead to a brighter future for both individuals and their families.
You Can Begin Alcohol Addiction Treatment at Woodland Recovery Center Today
Alcohol addiction is a disease that affects all members of the family. When someone is battling alcohol addiction and is ready to get help, getting help for the entire family is crucial to bringing about full healing and lasting change.
At Woodland Recovery Center, we offer alcohol addiction treatment to help people overcome addiction, but we don’t stop there. Because addiction is a family disease, we also have a family support program that ensures everyone, not just the person struggling with addiction, gets the help they need. This family addiction counseling can help the whole family heal, change, and begin rebuilding healthy relationships. Reach out today at 662.222.2989 or online to learn more about how we can help.
