Why Addiction is Called 'The Family Disease’

Addiction is often called a family disease because of the profound impact it has on the family of an individual with a substance use disorder. But the title doesn't just come from its impact on the family. Addiction is also a family disease because substance use problems can often be rooted in family dysfunction. Even when it's not, families often need to come together to learn ways to cope with a substance use problem. What makes addiction so linked to family problems, and how can families address these problems together?

Codependency and EnablingCodependency can have deep roots in families that are struggling with substance use disorders. Codependency refers to an extreme dependency of one person on another who suffers from an addiction. The codependent person’s actions unintentionally worsen or permit the addictive behavior of their loved one, often referred to as enabling.

Many codependent adults often had dysfunctional parental relationships during their upbringing. They may have learned that their own needs didn’t matter, focusing instead on meeting their parent’s needs. This pattern continues into adulthood, affecting the relationships they form.

In cases of addiction and alcoholism, codependency manifests as good intentions. Family members take over responsibilities like housekeeping, child care, and finances. They may make excuses to protect the person from consequences at work or in relationships. Codependency perpetuates addiction by shielding the addicted individual from consequences.

Families need to establish healthy boundaries to avoid enabling behaviors. In many cases, co-dependent family members can also need treatment to learn to set those boundaries.

How Does Addiction Affect Families?Substance abuse affects families emotionally, psychologically, financially, and socially. For instance, a parent's preoccupation with alcohol or drugs can lead to neglect or abuse, which is a direct impact of alcohol or drugs on an entire family. However, families can experience the impact of addiction in many ways, including the following:

• Financial Consequences. Alcohol and drug use can result in financial hardship, poverty, or bankruptcy.
• Social Isolation and Shame. Embarrassment because of intoxicated behavior can cause social isolation. Families may avoid friends and relatives due to shame.
• Destructive Cycle. Substance abuse leads to emotional pain and mental instability. This triggers a stronger craving for alcohol or drugs, perpetuating the cycle.
• Undermining Relationships. Addiction damages loving, trusting relationships within families. Children may take on parental roles, and spouses may hide addictions. Parents’ efforts to rescue addicted children often lead to heartbreak.

While addiction is treatable, it often involves addressing issues that involve the whole family. Repairing damaged relationships necessitates time, patience, and professional addiction support.

Approaching the Issue as a FamilyInitiating a conversation about substance abuse with a family member can be difficult but necessary. Compassionate communication and professional intervention can help break down barriers and lead to healing. Approaching an addiction issue as a family can be challenging, but it’s essential for everyone’s well-being. 

1. Choose the Right Time. Approach the conversation when the person struggling with addiction is sober. This approach ensures a more rational and open discussion.
2. Express Concern. Be caring and honest when expressing your concerns. Focus on how their substance use has affected areas they care about, such as their career, children, sports, or physical health2.
3. Have Support. Bring a support person with you or have someone available by phone. Having emotional support during the conversation can be helpful.
4. Prepare Ahead. Prepare and write down what you want to say beforehand. A clear plan helps you stay focused and cover essential points.

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Sources
American Psychiatric Association. (2017, January). What Is Addiction? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/addiction/what-is-addiction

Mager, D. (2016, May 2). Addiction as a family affliction. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/some-assembly-required/201605/addiction-family-affliction