An addict hurts more than themselves when they use. They hurt everyone around them. Their family, friends, and even coworkers are all affected by their disease in a different way. The loved ones are usually hit the hardest with this. They often feel responsible for a loved one’s disease. They feel they may have caused it or helped it progress. But none of that is true. Addiction is a disease and it is up to the addict to want to get treatment for it.

The three most important things a loved one of an addict must remember is:

You didn’t cause it.

You can’t control it.

You can’t cure it.

Furthermore, you shouldn’t go through this situation alone. Although you may not see it, there are millions of other people dealing with a family members addiction. They are going through the same struggle you are, feeling the same emotions you are. You can connect with others in similar situations by going to family support groups. At these groups, you can go through your emotions with others and make connections and friends that can help you through the hard times. Seabrook Services, a part of Seabrook, hosts free parent and family support groups each month. Attending these will help you get through this time in your life. It is a confidential place that provides a supportive, educational environment to enhance the understanding of drug and alcohol addiction and provides a safe place for loved ones to come and share their experiences together. The next meeting is tonight, November 4th from 6:30-8:30 in Cherry Hill. Contact Brittany Andrelczyk at 215-360-9963 or [email protected] for more information about this group.