Addiction is a family disease, meaning that if an individual is struggling with a substance use disorder, it will affect the rest of the family in various ways. As they respond with a wide range of coping mechanisms, their reactive behaviors influence their loved one who is struggling with addiction. The family dysfunction that results
“And after a long time the boy came back again. “I am sorry, Boy,” said the tree, “but I have nothing left to give you- My apples are gone.” “My teeth are too weak for apples,” said the boy. “My branches are gone,” said the tree. “You cannot swing on them-“ “I am too old
Substance use disorders, whether it is heroin, marijuana, alcohol, cocaine, or stimulants, no doubt, harvest secrecy, isolation, and deception. Individuals with a substance use disorder often live in a complex web of lies specifically designed to keep dangerous coping mechanisms in place and “protected” from those who sincerely want to help. Individuals will often hide
The New Year signals a new start, a whole new year to wipe your slate clean, and a chance to make lofty goals known as New Year’s resolutions. New Year’s resolutions can be troublesome for many individuals. On the one hand, these are a way to set high standards and new goals, but most of
Ringing in the New Year is a memorable experience for many as it represents closing the chapter on the current year while looking forward to new memories, friendships, and milestones in the coming year. New Year’s Eve can be challenging and scary for individuals who are in recovery and for those trying to abstain from
Christmas is a magical time of year for many, but it can also be a difficult time of year for those who cannot spend it with loved ones or those who are struggling with an addiction or mental health disorder. This year is particularly challenging with the global pandemic, which has resulted in so much
Genetics indeed play a significant role in the development of substance use disorders and mental health disorders. An individual is more likely to develop depression or alcohol use disorder if their mom or dad also had one of these disorders. The common phrase “addiction is a family disease” has nothing to do with the actual
“A codependent person is one who has let another person’s behavior affect him or her, and who is obsessed with controlling that person’s behavior.” ― Melody Beattie, Codependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself What is codependency? Codependency is a negative factor that is encountered in many relationships that can destroy
The holidays can be a stressful time of year for anyone and can be even more stressful if you are in recovery. Addiction is more pronounced during the holiday season, and when one individual is struggling with a substance use disorder, the entire family unit is affected. Family gatherings, hectic preparations, holiday shopping, financial stress,
The holiday season can be the busiest time of the year. Holiday parties, gift exchanges, family gatherings, celebratory dinners, and decorations are just a few factors that play into the holiday season’s hustle and bustle. From a young age, we are told to buy gifts for others, be on our best behavior at holiday gatherings,
