Addictions and Substance Abuse in the Family
When one or both people in a marriage abuse or are addicted to alcohol or drugs, relationships among all family members, including children, are likely to be damaged. Children and teens can also be the family members who abuse or who are addicted, impacting the entire family. Addictions to substances or activities such as gambling can be devastating emotionally, spiritually, physically, socially and financially.
It is unlikely that change and healing can take place for the addicted individual unless they stop using. Separation or divorce from an addicted spouse may ease the crisis, but not heal the damage. All family members may have to learn or relearn how to have healthy relationships that aren’t dominated by the addiction, and probably should seek help to do so. After years of keeping the problem hidden from others, this can be very difficult. Admitting that there is a problem is the first step.
There are many different kinds of help available, including self-education, self-help groups and various types of professional therapy. Self-help groups and therapy are designed to protect confidentiality. If it is too difficult yet to try these or even to confide in someone you know like your doctor, clergy, family, or friend, at least read more about the problem. You’ll find out you are not alone. Here are some resources to get you started.
National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information (NCADI) Self-Help Resources for many types of addictions.
Call 1-800-729-6686 for an information specialist or visit http://ncadistore.samhsa.gov/catalog/referrals.aspx?topic=83&h=resources
Georgia Al-Anon and Al-Lateen Family Groups of Georgia
Provides support to those affected by someone else's drinking. Call 404-687-0466 or visit http://www.ga-al-anon.org/
Alcoholics Anonymous (For the alcoholic or problem drinker)
In Georgia, call 404-525-3178 anytime of day or night to reach A.A. volunteers for help or for information on A.A. meetings and programs. There are over 1,100 A.A. meetings each week in Atlanta. http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org or http://www.atlantaaa.org/
National Catholic Council on Alcoholism and Related Drug Problems
Village of St. Joseph
A program of Catholic Charities Atlanta.
For help in English: 404-733-3527
For help in Spanish: 404-733-3528
http://www.catholiccharitiesatlanta.org/services/stjoe.htm
Georgia Department of Human Resources Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases (MHDDAD)
To get information about treatment services in your area, call 404-657-5737, visit the website for services in Georgia, or contact a representative via email at glwilson@dhr.state.ga.us