Dealing with a Parent’s Addiction

The children of people with alcohol or drug problems usually suffer greatly. Addicted family members are more likely to be violent or emotionally abusive, and even when abuse is not a factor, households affected by addiction can be highly disordered, unstable and unloving. Read more

Talking to a Loved One about Addiction

No one likes to admit that someone they love might be in trouble. But even though this admission may be difficult, it’s nothing compared to the difficulty your loved ones will face if they really are in trouble and never get the help they need. Read more

Supporting a Family Member Addicted to Prescription Opiates

Opiate addiction can be just as devastating for the family as it is for the addict. It’s not easy having a husband or wife who is addicted to painkillers. Your spouse is supposed to be your partner in all things, so when an addiction robs them of their ability to function normally or to be there when you need them, this can cause feelings of pain and betrayal. Read more

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Stimulant Medications

At the same time that teens are bombarded with anti-drug messages, many are also given prescriptions for psychoactive medications, including those that treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Read more

Parental Attitudes and
Teen Substance Use

Every year for the past 14 years, The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University has conducted the National Survey of American Attitudes on Substance Abuse: Parents and Teens. The results of this year’s study strongly indicated that parental attitudes about substance use — their own and their children’s — significantly impacts teen substance use.

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The Dangers of a Family in Denial

This week, a New York woman consumed 10 alcoholic drinks, smoked marijuana, and within fifteen minutes got in her car and started driving. With her daughter and three nieces in the car, Diane Schuler, 36, got onto the Taconic State Parkway and drove the wrong way for nearly two miles before colliding with an SUV.  Read more

Making Excuses for Alcoholism

Addiction is often accompanied by denial. Denial makes it possible for the addict to continue his habits in the face of serious negative consequences. Individuals struggling with alcoholism tend to employ a certain set of excuses when it comes to facing their destructive behavior. Read more

Recovery: A Family Affair

As part of Alcohol Awareness Month in April, the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is promoting the message that recovery is a family affair. Read more

The Effects of Addiction on Family and Friends

Addiction affects people of all ages and backgrounds. And unfortunately, it affects the addict’s family and friends, too.
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