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The Dangerous Impact of Opioid Addiction on Families

a child hugs a teddy bear and sit on the floor while their parents argue on the couch behind them showing the impact of opioid addiction

The opioid crisis has devastated individuals and families across the United States. Opioid addiction not only impairs a person’s physical and mental health but can also profoundly impact their relationships with loved ones. Family members of those struggling with opioid abuse often face overwhelming emotional and financial struggles as they try to help their loved ones. It is essential to address the impact of this epidemic so that everyone affected by opioids can receive the support they need during these difficult times.

At Northpoint Omaha opioid rehab, our team helps individuals address their addiction from every angle by providing nutritional intervention, psychological assessment, life skills training, and relapse prevention strategies. Our facility also offers additional services such as job placement assistance and access to community resources. For more information, contact our team of experts today at 888.687.8014.

The Impact Of Opioid Addiction On Families

The impact of opioid abuse on families can be profound and long-lasting. The harm of opioid abuse on loved ones and family members may include guilt and shame due to their inability to help the addict overcome their addiction. In addition, families often struggle financially due to the large sums spent on buying opioids and any medical expenses incurred due to physical health issues accompanying opioid use.

In addition to financial distress, families can suffer significantly from the emotional upheaval caused by living with or trying to help an addicted family member. They may feel helpless in attempting to provide assistance or support while also dealing with negative behaviors like lying and manipulation brought on by the addict’s desperate attempts to get money for drugs or hide their addiction from friends or relatives. This lack of trust and communication can lead to feelings of resentment, which in turn further damages relationships within the family unit.

The impact of opioid addiction on families can be especially damaging when it comes to children who live in a household where one parent is abusing opioids. Children in these situations tend to experience the following:

  • Higher levels of anxiety and depression
  • Higher incidences of truancy from school
  • Poor academic performance
  • Lower self-esteem
  • Greater risk for substance abuse

The adverse effects of addiction on families are severe and must not be taken lightly. Steps should promptly happen to address the crisis before it spirals out of control.

Addressing the Opioid Crisis In Families

Opioid abuse can lead to strained relationships, financial hardship, and homelessness. The opioid crisis has taken a toll on countless loved ones in the form of hurt feelings and broken trust. Fortunately, treatments are available that help address the effect of opioids on families. Through rehab and other forms of support, individuals struggling with addiction can begin to heal their lives and those around them.

One way rehabilitation helps family members affected by an individual’s opioid use disorder is by guiding how best to support their loved one during recovery. Rehab programs provide education about recognizing signs of relapse and techniques for responding if they do occur.

Additionally, family therapy sessions allow all parties involved — including those the person’s substance use has directly impacted — to share their stories and experiences to understand each other’s perspective better and come together as a team. Families can build strong bonds that will last long after treatment ends by working together through these difficult times.

Providing Healing for Families Dealing With Opioid Addiction at Northpoint Omaha

The impact of opioid addiction on families is devastating, and the crisis shows no sign of slowing down. It’s essential to recognize that family members are affected by their loved one’s drug use indirectly and directly.

Families should not be ashamed or feel guilty about a member’s addiction; instead, they should seek help from professionals who can provide resources for those struggling with substance abuse disorders. For more information, contact the experts at Northpoint Omaha today at 888.687.8014.