Addressing the needs of families who have a loved one in addiction
Harm
The negative effects caused to individuals by harmful use of drug and/or alcohol have been well-documented. Adverse health-related effects have also formed the basis of many drug and alcohol health awareness campaigns.
Research
While the damage caused to individuals and society has been the subject of much research in this area, a recent report by the Health Research Board notes that there is little published literature relating to the negative effects of alcohol misuse within the family setting. Furthermore, the impact of having a problem drug-using sibling on other brothers and sisters has been much less likely to attract research attention.
Effects of alcohol
The HRB report highlights a range of adverse outcomes that can occur in the family when a family member develops an alcohol problem, including: chaotic family life; the breakdown of traditional family roles; support and supervision of children neglected; uncertainty and anxiety for family members; disruption of family gatherings and recreational activities.
A recent study by the ISPCC found that 9% of young people said that parental alcohol abuse affected them in a negative way, including: emotional impacts; abuse and violence; family relations; changes in parental behaviour and neglect.
Support
The RISE Foundation is a registered charity founded by the singer Frances Black in 2008. It was set up to support the families of those who have a loved one in addiction (alcohol, drugs, gambling, food or sex addiction).
Speaking to drugs.ie about addiction and the family, Frances explained: "Addiction is not just about that one person in addiction. A lot of family members find it very hard to talk about this issue, and they can feel that they are on their own. There is often a feeling of powerlessness for family members - as they watch a loved one going through an addiction - and that is very difficult for family members."
Visit The RISE Foundation website
Visit our Services Section for a list of drug and alcohol services in your area.
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