As the public view of addiction as a moral deficiency shifts to the view of addiction as a disease, simultaneously there has been a transition of perspective to the concept of addiction as a family disease. Professionals in the addiction treatment field continue to seek clarity as to the cause(s) of this disease.
In recent years, some of this focus has been on trauma and family systems. Unfortunately, it’s quite apparent that many individuals come from families they didn’t feel a part of.
However, one might ask how this bears any significance when individuals develop this malady of addiction as well. One thing to think about, in regards to this very valid question, is that each individual, each family, and society at large all have different concepts of success and normality that takes a toll similar to financial or professional ruin.
Addiction and Family Healing
The simple answer to this question is that there is not a simple or concise answer. If there were, the treatment industry would not exist as it does. Furthermore, the mosaic of modalities and methods for combatting this fatal disease wouldn’t exist.
In intervention, there has also been a healthy and productive shift, since the days of Vernon Johnson, to the view that family healing is necessary for lasting recovery and change. As I sat in one of largest 12-step speaker meetings in Portland, OR last evening, I took inspiration by the sight of this family healing at work. As the chip committee gathered to distribute coins, I focused attentively at the many miracles before me.
Experience And Understanding
A large group made their way to the podium to collect a token for their completion of 30 days of sobriety. One of whom was a young girl in the row behind me. I applauded the group as I waited for the next group to gather. As I watched, I witnessed the group in the row behind me stand up and cheer repeatedly.
Like a domino effect, I watched 4 of 5 family members collect a 30 day coin, a 1 year coin, a 5 year coin, and a 10 year coin. Overall, I watched the family glimmer with happiness and joy. On their faces, I saw what resembled a serenity and a hope that only those in recovery can truly relate to. This semblance and emotion was contagious and brought a feeling of joy and gratitude into my own being. I knew that I was in the presence of a family that had suffered for many years. However, they slowly came into this place of healing and recovery that I had the privilege of witnessing.
Seek Help With Compassionate Interventions
This, I wish could be witnessed by all of the families out there caught in addiction. At Compassionate Interventions, we strive to help each family find this hope. This is the foundation of their healing, so they too can recover. Specifically, our addiction intervention programs will put you on the right path. Reach out today and visit our addiction treatment resources for more information.
– Colin Tardif