Alcohol or drug abusers can cause their families severe trauma. Families may witness the user go into drunken rages, experience rapid weight loss, discover that their missing loved one is living on the street, or has fatally overdosed.

Below are some of the signs and behaviours that could indicate if someone is addicted to alcohol or drugs:

Family environment

Substance abusers are usually unpredictable or irrational. Arguments between parents may become normal, causing children to withdraw and experience emotional distress.

Broken trust

Addiction always takes priority over relationships or family needs, and is coupled with dishonesty. Addicts may want to honour their commitments, but the effects of the substances make them unable to. This loss of trust often results in broken marriages and dysfunctional children with serious mental and emotional disorders.

Increased stress

Addictions are not cheap. Paying bills, making decisions, and cleaning up after the addict will quickly affect the family’s stress levels and health. Their unreliable and erratic behaviour may also affect their jobs.

If you or your family need support, reach out to NMG SmartAssist and speak to a counsellor at no cost.