Apart from addiction affecting an individual, it can also have profound effects on the family. For instance, this is why some families are at loggerheads with their addicted loved ones.
There is bound to be strife, conflict, and sometimes separation in the family unit.
When the individual is in recovery, the counselor and therapist often try to mend the rift between the addicted individual and their families.
The same also applies to aftercare treatment when the individual has recovered from addiction but is still undergoing treatment.
Healing from addiction is not solely an individual’s effort. The family too has a pivotal role to play. Here are some benefits of loved ones in aftercare treatment
Rebuilding the familial bonds
When an individual is addicted, they are likely to be in isolation because of some reasons like stigmatization, conflict with their loved ones, etc. The individual is likely to prioritize their addictive habits over the benefits that come with family.
Hence, they might miss out on some important events that are supposed to strengthen family bonds and unity.
Having your loved ones like family and friends during aftercare treatment can help to identify and solve family problems. It can enhance communication skills, improve relationships, and spread love and affection.
Provide support and defeat enabling behaviors
Addiction can make a family abandon their loved one, which can cause enabling behaviors in the process. These behaviors might be conscious or unintentional. But, the truth remains that turning a blind eye does not help the individual in any way.
During aftercare treatment, the family will learn how to provide their loved ones with support in all ramifications. They will also help them ensure they don’t get into any negative situations.
Understand addiction triggers
When the family is well informed on the concept of addiction triggers and cravings, it will be easy for them to know the right step to take. In aftercare treatment, the family will learn how triggers work so that they can care for their loved ones.