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There's a growing body of evidence suggesting that
addiction and codependence are trans-generational
diseases. That is to say, there are both hereditary
and environmental factors that predispose people to
chemical (drug, alcohol) and non-chemical (food, work,
caretaking) addictions. The effects are felt for many
generations. |
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| HOW LIFE’S PAIN & PROBLEMS AFFECT FAMILIES |
A family is like a kaleidoscope made up of varied parts that
tumble around and reconfigure themselves endlessly. When one
part shifts, the whole picture changes. On a daily basis,
stressful events occur that can alter the family kaleidoscope:
job loss, unexpected illness, political unrest, natural disasters,
death, divorce, addiction, abuse, etc. Such circumstances shift
the balance and throw the members off course. When one member of a
family is affected by stressful events, every member is impacted.
The presence of addiction or illness (mental or physical) in a
family member is a classic example. Everyone who loves the
suffering person becomes consumed with worry. Experts say that
family systems are literally dominated by the sickest member. The
person closest to the troubled individual becomes obsessed with that
person's problems. This leads to compulsive efforts to control and
manage the out-of-control situation. Other family members are
robbed—not just of a normal relationship with the identified patient
(the "addict")-but also of the time and attention of the caregiver/s.
If an older brother is addicted to drugs, his younger siblings can’t
have a normal relationship with him. They are also deprived of their
fair share of their parents’ time and attention. Similarly, if a
mother is obsessed with fixing her alcoholic spouse, her children are
emotionally neglected.
The children lose both of their parents—one
to addiction, one to codependence.
Research indicates that for every addict/alcoholic, four or more
other persons—usually immediate family members—are adversely
affected. The long-range consequences are profound. The affected
persons become depressed, develop anxiety disorders, act out in
self-harming or suicidal ways, or engage in socially unacceptable
behavior.
Such tragic outcomes might be prevented if the affected individuals
had an opportunity to focus on the confusion, fear, pain, and losses
they are suffering in a safe place,to treat their wounds, and to
develop healthy coping skills. Innocent family members deserve
guidance and direction in living normal, healthy lives, whether or
not the addict, alcoholic, or mentally ill individual seeks help for
his/her problem.
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Call Us Toll Free : (877) 866-8661 |
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