There are lots of people who do not understand why some people become addicted to drugs. The public may believe that those who use drugs are weak and lack moral principles or willpower and that they could end their drug use by simply choosing to stop using.

There’s no escaping the fact that drug addiction is a complex disease, and quitting often requires more than good intentions. Even people who want to quit are challenged by drugs because they alter the brain in fundamental ways.

Scientists now know more than ever about how drugs affect the brain, and they have developed treatments that can help people recover from drug addiction and lead productive lives.

In most family situations, when one member of the family has an addiction, the entire family finds ways to cope. Families don’t speak about it or express how they feel very often: most don’t talk about it at all, they may not tell others about their addiction.

In some families, the addicted family member takes on some of the responsibilities the addicted person has stopped performing, or they provide financial support.

Even though these methods may help the family function more smoothly and get along better, they could also perpetuate addiction. Additionally, family members may also abuse drugs or alcohol to cope with problems in the family. Addiction negatively impacts the family, which can result in tensions and fights between family members.

Family members can become stressed or anxious when dealing with an addict, which can wreak havoc on their health. It is common for family members to feel lonely, confused, angry, guilty and perhaps they feel hopeless as well. Their substance use or gambling is not their fault, and that must be emphasized to them.

Conclusively, support groups, church leaders or counselors are often available to help families deal with difficult conditions.