Addiction, also known as substance use disorder (SUD), is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder. It is characterized by compulsively engaging in rewarding stimuli (e.g., abusing drugs and/ or alcohol) without regard for consequence. A young person that struggles with addiction will prioritize satisfying his or her drug cravings above all else, which can adversely affect every facet of one’s life. More so, addiction does not only affect the individual engaging in substance abusing behaviors, but also can have a significant impact on his or her loved ones. Addiction often requires a customized treatment plan that considers and addresses the symptoms, the underlying causes of the disease, as well as work with the individual to repair the damage that occurred in the various areas of his or her life as a direct result of his or her substance abuse. Residential treatment facilities provide a safe and healing environment, to allow each young person the ability dedicate all his or her attention and energy to the recovery process. Family is defined as “a group of two or more persons related by birth, marriage, or adoption who live together; all such related persons are considered as members of one family.” Family relationships can have a profound effect on mental health, behavior, as well as physical heath. Depending on the nature of family relationships, one’s mental health can be enhanced or negatively impacted. When family relationships are stable and supportive, they can have positive effects on one’s mental health, as they can provide resources that can help a family member learn to cope with stress, engage in healthier behaviors, and cultivate improved self-esteem. In a healthy family unit, family members can rely on each other for emotional support, economic support, and companionship. It is common for individuals in treatment for substance abuse and/ or addiction to participate in some form of family therapy. Family behavior therapy (FTB) can teach a family unit helpful tools and strategies for navigating family conflict, improving communication methods, and reduce risk factors for addiction. It can illuminate and correct dysfunctional family patterns and work to disintegrate unhealthy family dynamics. For young people going through treatment, it is important to establish a healthy system and environment to return to, post completion of the treatment program. Including the one’s family can help create a healthier system and safer environment for the teen in treatment to continue with his or her recovery.
For Information and Support
Every family in need of mental health treatment must select a program that will best suit the needs of their family. When one member of a family struggles, it impacts everyone in the family unit. To maximize the benefits of treatment we work closely with the entire family to ensure that everyone is receiving the support they need through these difficult times. Seeking help is never easy, but you are not alone! If you or someone you know needs mental health treatment, we strongly encourage you to reach out for help as quickly as possible. It is not uncommon for many mental health difficulties to impact a person’s life, long term. Pursuing support at the beginning of one’s journey can put the individual in the best position to learn how to manage themselves in a healthy way so they can go on to live happy and fulfilling lives.
OUR KNOWLEDGEABLE ADMISSIONS TEAM CAN BE REACHED 24/7 AT INFO@PACIFICRTC.COM OR CALL: 800-531-5769
