A Family Problem Requires a Family Solution: How Families are Affected by Addiction, and What to Do About It | Sessions

When a loved one struggles with addiction, families tend to focus their energy and attention on getting that person well. Most believe that if their loved one finds help, then everyone else will be okay. Many family members can see the negative impact and consequences of addiction on their loved ones, but find it difficult to see the depth of how they've been affected. If families aren't getting support for themselves, the fear that they've had about their loved one finding recovery often becomes fear about whether or not their loved one will maintain it. Without an understanding of the disease, families often end up reacting as they did when their loved one was still in active addiction.  This session will look at how families are affected by the disease of addiction, how to help these families find support for themselves, and will provide useful resources available to assist HR Professionals in helping those within their organization who are living this experience.

Learning Objectives:

• Discuss obstacles to families finding recovery.
• Describe the similar symptoms of addiction that families experience, as well as their loved ones.
• Report and collaborate on resources available to family members who have a loved one who struggles with addiction.