The Role of Family Therapy in Successful Addiction Recovery

Addiction does not just affect the person struggling with substance abuse but their loved ones as well. When a person abuses drugs or alcohol, their family and friends often experience a ripple effect of negative consequences. The communication breakdown, betrayal, neglected responsibilities, financial strain, and emotional & physical turmoil can strain relationships, erode trust, and create a significant rift between family and their loved ones. Family therapy is an important component of addiction treatment for these reasons.

Sadly, these effects can linger even in addiction recovery. Family members may continue to carry the emotional wounds and resentments caused by addiction. Trust may be fragile, and they may struggle with ongoing communication challenges and unresolved conflicts. They might not assume healthy roles and behavior to encourage and support recovery in this state. That's why family therapy is important. 

What is Family Therapy? 

Family therapy, also known as family counseling or systemic therapy, is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on improving the functioning and well-being of a family unit. It addresses the interpersonal dynamics, communication issues, and relationships among family members, with the aim of healing relationships, enhancing understanding, and promoting positive change. The therapy process involves all or most family members attending sessions together, although sometimes individual sessions may also be included.

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Practices in Family Therapy

Family group therapy rebuilds rifts between loved ones. A therapist may use different therapy models, including:

Why is Family Therapy Important in Recovery?

Family therapy plays a significant role in recovery by providing support, education, and intervention for individuals and families facing various challenges.

Education and Awareness

Therapy can play a vital role in addressing misconceptions surrounding addiction. One common misconception is the belief that addiction is solely a moral failing or a result of weak willpower. Family members may harbor judgment or blame towards their loved one, perceiving their addiction or relapse as a character flaw rather than a disease.

Education and awareness about addiction as a disease help family members overcome stigma and judgment. They come to recognize that addiction is not a choice but a medical condition that requires treatment and support. This understanding promotes empathy, compassion, and patience within the family system.

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Addresses Co-Occurring Issues

Co-occurring issues are mental disorders that often co-exist with substance use disorders. According to studies, 53% of drug and 37% of alcohol users also have at least one serious mental illness. And family plays a big role in mental health and addiction, so this type of therapy becomes crucial in addressing these co-occurring issues.

Utilizing this type of therapy can help family members understand the impact of family dynamics on mental health and addiction. This can, in turn, encourage families to create a nurturing and empowering environment for their loved ones to recover and thrive.

Encourages Family Involvement 

One of the key principles of family therapy is the encouragement of family involvement, which means involving all family unit members in the therapeutic strategies. This approach recognizes that issues within a family are often influenced by the dynamics and relationships among its members, and therefore, involving everyone is crucial for effective intervention and healing. These therapy sessions will encourage family involvement through family sessions, active participation, collaborative problem-solving, psychoeducation, and homework assignments. 

Improved treatment retention

Family group therapy helps create a supportive environment where family members actively engage in treatment. Their involvement and support can significantly enhance an individual's motivation to stay in addiction treatment and work toward recovery. Knowing that their family members are invested in their well-being and actively participating in therapy can give the individual a sense of purpose and support, increasing their commitment to the treatment program. Besides, family members can provide ongoing encouragement and reinforcement, positively impacting the individual's commitment to treatment and overall recovery.

Creates a Supportive Environment

Therapy with family present can also emphasize the importance of their support in the recovery process. It helps family members recognize their role in supporting their loved ones, providing them with tools and resources to create a nurturing and conducive environment for healing. This supportive atmosphere helps individuals feel understood, validated, and less alone in their recovery.

Improves Communication and Conflict Resolution Skills

Addiction or mental health issues can strain relationships, create misunderstandings, and lead to unhealthy communication patterns. Therapy provides a structured and supportive environment to address these challenges effectively.

During therapy sessions, family members learn valuable communication skills that foster understanding, empathy, and active listening. They also learn how to constructively express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. This allows them to express their support better, establish boundaries, and navigate sensitive topics related to their loved one's recovery. 

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Safe Space for Family Members

This type of therapy provides a safe and supportive space where family members can express their emotions, concerns, and experiences related to addiction. It allows them to openly discuss the impact of addiction without fear of judgment or repercussions. Family members can share their struggles, frustrations, and fears and gain insight into their loved one's experiences and challenges. This safe space encourages open and honest communication, fostering understanding, empathy, and emotional healing within the family unit.

Preventing Relapse and Sustaining Recovery

Family support and involvement are crucial for preventing relapse and supporting sustained recovery. In family therapy, family members can learn about addiction, its triggers, and warning signs of relapse. They can also develop skills and strategies to support their loved one's recovery, such as creating a structured and supportive home environment, understanding relapse as part of the process, and encouraging healthy coping mechanisms. Family group therapy helps families become active in the recovery journey, increasing the chances of long-term success.

Family therapy is widely recognized as a valuable component of rehabilitation services and recovery. It acknowledges the impact that addiction has on the entire family system and emphasizes the importance of family support in the healing process. At More Than Rehab, we understand this importance and offer family group therapy as part of our services. 

Family group therapy provides a supportive and inclusive environment where family members can actively participate in the treatment and healing journey. By involving the family, More Than Rehab acknowledges the vital role that family support plays in promoting lasting recovery. If you are interested in learning more about our specific approach to family group therapy and the comprehensive services we provide, contact us today.

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Misdiagnosis of Withdrawal Symptoms as Mental Health Issues

Withdrawal symptoms are a natural and expected part of quitting addictive substances. They occur because the body and brain have become accustomed to the presence of the substance and have adapted to its effects. When the substance is removed, the body and brain need time to readjust, which can result in emotional, psychological, and social symptoms. The misdiagnosis of withdrawal symptoms, which include sweating, nausea, tremors, seizures, anxiety, depression, irritability, and hallucinations, can often mimic symptoms of mental health disorders.

For example, withdrawal from meth can cause extreme paranoia, anxiety, and hallucinations, which might be mistaken for symptoms of schizophrenia or other mental health conditions. Meth use can also cause long-term changes in the brain, which might lead to signs and symptoms that resemble mental health disorders even after the drug use has stopped.

Similarly, withdrawal from opioids such as heroin or prescription painkillers can cause anxiety, depression, and irritability, which can be misdiagnosed as generalized anxiety disorder or major depressive disorder.

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These symptoms may persist for weeks or even months after the drug use has stopped, making it difficult to distinguish between withdrawal symptoms and underlying mental health conditions. In such cases, a doctor might prescribe an antidepressant to treat symptoms. But this only worsens the situation since depression isn't the primary issue. Eventually, the patient might end up with issues like emotional blunting after stopping antidepressants.

The Negative Impact of Misdiagnosed Mental Illness

Misdiagnosing withdrawal symptoms as mental health can lead to psychological and physical health issues. It can:

Exacerbate the underlying condition

If a person is misdiagnosed with a mental health disorder and prescribed medication to treat that disorder, the medicine may not address the underlying issue of withdrawal, and the person's symptoms may persist or worsen. Moreover, when misdiagnosed with a mental health disorder, they may be prescribed medications that can worsen their withdrawal symptoms or cause new ones.

For example, benzodiazepines, often used to treat anxiety, are addictive and can worsen withdrawal symptoms if a person is already experiencing them. Misdiagnosis can also delay or prevent patients from receiving appropriate attention for their withdrawal, leading to worsening the underlying condition.

Potentially life-threatening consequences

Some withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, delirium tremens, and respiratory depression, can be life-threatening if left untreated. But when these symptoms are misdiagnosed, and appropriate treatment is delayed or not given, the patient may end up with potentially life-threatening complications, including coma or even death.

Increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and self-harm scenarios

Withdrawal symptoms can lead to intense emotional distress and increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and self-harm scenarios. And the risk is even higher when healthcare providers misdiagnose the symptoms as mental health issues and offer inappropriate medication.

Psychological consequences

Misdiagnosis can also have psychological consequences, leading to a feeling of hopelessness and frustration for the individual. Patients with misdiagnosed mental conditions can end up feeling deflated, confused, and frustrated when they notice that the treatment prescribed is not working. Sometimes, they might feel hopeless or like failures and turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. In extreme cases, they may self-harm or even commit suicide.

Increased risk to self-medicate

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Mental health issues often co-occur with substance use disorders. In fact, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, people with Drug abuse issues may also struggle with mental health issues like bipolar disorder, ADHD, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. This is mainly because these co-occurring disorders share the same contributing factors, including environmental and biological factors. 

A misdiagnosis, coupled with a lack of access to the proper psychiatric treatment can further drive one to addiction as they self-medicate to mask the symptoms, trying to make themselves feel better. Conditions like marijuana, cocaine, and opioid use disorder are common because they bring euphoria and escape from the reality of an undiagnosed mental issue.

Causes of Misdiagnosis of Withdrawal Symptoms

There are several potential causes of misdiagnosis of withdrawal symptoms, including:

Prevention and Treatment

Misdiagnosing withdrawal symptoms as mental health issues can significantly affect a patient's health and well-being. However, there are steps that healthcare professionals can take to prevent misdiagnosis and provide appropriate treatment.

  1. One of the most critical steps to prevent misdiagnosis of withdrawal symptoms is to increase education and awareness among healthcare professionals. Healthcare professionals should receive education and training on the common symptoms of withdrawal to improve their understanding and ability to recognize them. This education can help reduce the number of misdiagnosed cases.
  2. Open communication between healthcare professionals and patients is also essential. Patients should disclose their history of substance abuse and the extent of their withdrawal symptoms. This information can help healthcare professionals make a proper diagnosis.
  3. Proper assessment and diagnosis of withdrawal symptoms are crucial to providing the correct treatment. Healthcare professionals should assess and diagnose withdrawal symptoms properly. This assessment can help identify the root cause of the symptoms, leading to proper treatment.
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Once a patient is correctly diagnosed, the appropriate treatment can be administered. Treatment for withdrawal symptoms may include medications to manage physical symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and seizures. Behavioral therapies may also address psychological symptoms and help individuals manage their cravings and triggers. Patients can also try out natural remedies for antidepressant withdrawal.

At More Than Rehab, we offer comprehensive, evidence-based treatments to address withdrawal symptoms and support long-term recovery. Our treatment plans are personalized to meet each individual's unique needs and may include a combination of medications, behavioral therapies, and other supportive services. Therapies are especially critical in managing withdrawal as it helps patients handle stress better.

We offer a comprehensive assessment and evaluation process for misdiagnosed clients to determine the underlying causes of their addiction or related issues. This process involves gathering information about the individual's medical and psychiatric history, as well as their substance use, related behaviors and known side effects. If a client has been misdiagnosed, we work with them to re-evaluate their diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan that addresses the underlying causes of their addiction or related issues.

We aim to provide personalized, compassionate care to help individuals achieve and maintain recovery. We are committed to providing the best substance abuse treatment and ongoing support and care to promote long-term success. Call us today. We are available to help 24/7.

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Mental Health and Addiction Treatment

Dual diagnosis is the treatment of addiction with another co-occurring disorder.

In the field of addiction treatment, when someone has a substance use disorder, coupled with another form of mental health issue, we call this a co-occurring disorder or a dual diagnosis. Sometimes addiction treatment alone is not enough. We have helped many people in the Houston, Texas area by identifying a co-occurring mental health issue that was adding to their substance abuse problem. In a dual diagnosis treatment program, your treatment plan is customized to meet your specific individual needs. A personalized addiction treatment plan is the best chance for a successful recovery in these cases.

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For someone who has silently struggled with a mental health issue for years, often the only solace they find is to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs. Many patients say this helps quiet the voice in their head telling them that everything is wrong. People with depression may experience a boost of confidence when they use, even if it is only temporary. For someone dealing with and trying to hide their own troublesome internal thoughts, an addiction can develop quickly. If they receive treatment for their substance use disorder, but not for their mental health issue, they will be more likely to drop out of treatment, or even relapse into abusing drugs and alcohol.

Since mental health issues can lead to someone abusing substances, it is often hard to tell which one caused the other. Withdrawal symptoms can sometimes look like a mental or behavioral disorder to the untrained eye. Feelings of lethargy, depression, hopelessness and sudden weight gain are common signs of clinical depression. These same mental and physical symptoms can come from the early acute withdrawal symptoms from alcoholism. In most cases, it is not entirely clear if the mental health of the patient led them to abuse drugs and alcohol or if the abuse of substances created the mental problems they are experiencing.

Detox from drugs or alcohol is the first step in diagnosing an underlying mental health issue.

Cognitive impairment from long term drug and alcohol abuse can often interfere with the proper diagnosis of a mental illness. Once a patient undergoes a full medical detox, cleansing the chemicals from the body and mind, clinicians can start to assess the patient’s underlying mental health. This is a crucial part of addiction recovery, as many patients might not even realize they have been living with a mental health disorder. Some people have been using drugs or alcohol on a daily basis, filling up most of their daily life with intoxication. This can go on for years and years, without them ever realizing they have an underlying struggle with mental health.

When a patient finally experiences sobriety for the first time in a long while, the emotional stress can be very difficult to overcome. Stress, anxiety, sadness and guilt are all commonly experienced when someone first enters addiction recovery services. This is why it is important for someone who struggles with drugs or alcohol to seek rehab from a professional treatment facility. These facilities should offer detox and recovery services for addiction treatment while a dual diagnosis drug rehab will offer help with emotional recovery, medication management, stress reduction and other crucial mental health services. With the support of the right program it is entirely possible to transform your life and rebuild yourself from the ground up.

How mental health and substance abuse can develop together.

The US Department of Health and Human Services notes that, mental health and substance use disorders may share similar, underlying causes for their development. These include changes in brain chemistry, genetic vulnerabilities and childhood exposure to extreme stress or trauma. These problems are further compounded when the person begins using drugs or alcohol to hide their symptoms. Studies have shown that people who struggle with anxiety or mood disorders are almost twice as likely to struggle with addiction than the average person is.

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The four most common mental health issues where substance abuse is more prevalent are:

These types of disorders, when complicated with drug or alcohol abuse are often very difficult to treat. They may require months or even years for someone to fully recover towards a high-functioning state of well-being.  

How is a dual diagnosis treated?

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Treatment for co-occurring disorders at a drug rehabilitation facility will commonly include a variety of physical, mental and behavioral therapies. These are designed to work together on an individual basis, to help the patient with their mental health and to overcome their addiction. These will typically be conducted through a combination of individual and group therapy sessions.

Your treatment providers will work with you during your stay at rehab to formulate an aftercare plan that will help you stay focused on your recovery after you leave their direct care. Outpatient programs, 12-step support groups and relapse prevention strategies will help you during the crucial, early phase of your recovery.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, consider seeking treatment right away. The pain experienced through a mental illness can have devastating consequences when left untreated. We employ a social model of addiction recovery in the Houston, Texas area. More Than Rehab is available 24/7, so we can get you the help you need, right away. Please call us:

888-249-2191