Everyone in a family unit will be impacted by a member’s addiction differently. Parents, siblings, cousins, and other loved ones tend to fall into different roles depending on their relationship with the person of concern. There are times when members disagree with how someone’s addiction should be handled, causing tension between others in the family unit.
Financial stress, emotional burden, and family members distancing themselves from the unit are unfortunate possibilities that addiction can bring to a family. Counseling for members who aren’t struggling with addiction can be just as helpful for those who are, especially when children and marriages are impacted. Although this time is difficult for many, it’s important to remain hopeful for recovery and continue to encourage a loved one with opioid addiction to decide to get the help they need so the family can heal together.