How Can Drug Abuse Cause Problems in a Family?
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Family Dynamics
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According to a Colorado State University study on adolescent drug abuse, family members can begin to take on uncomfortable or unfamiliar roles just because of the abuser's addiction. For example, one member may become the "Mascot", someone who uses comedy or jokes to distract from the abuser's problems. Another member may become the "Hero," who excels in many areas to make the family look good, even though they are dealing with a serious problem. This can lead to severe emotional strain within the family dynamics.
Emotional Strain
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Much emotional strain can be caused in a family that has a drug-abusing member. The drug becomes the center of the abuser's world; nothing else matters as long as he can get high. If the abuser is a parent, children can feel neglected. The emotional needs that are usually met by children's parents can go unsatisfied, leaving them with feelings of abandonment, even if the parent never leaves the home. Spouses can also feel an emotional divide, since the abuser is dedicated to her relationship with the drugs and not the spouse.
The family must also go through the emotional strain of public perception. They could constantly find themselves putting on a front to act like everything is "o.k." with the member. Families could withdraw from public activities for fear of an embarrassing moment with the abuser.
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Financial Resources
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Financial resources are also affected in a family with a drug abuser. Some abusers can feel so controlled by their drugs that they resort to stealing and selling household items, even from their own family members. If the abuser is a breadwinner, the family might have to find other financial resources with which to buy necessities like food or pay bills, since abusers will often use that money to get drugs. There can also be financial strain caused by medical bills for multiple rehabilitation treatments, bail for court appearances, and emergency services related to drug overdoses.
Law Enforcement
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Dealing with law enforcement and local authorities on a constant basis can also impact a family. Some family members may go too far to protect their addicted loved ones. They may feel that they need to lie about an abuser's whereabouts to the law, which could be considered obstruction of justice. Family members can go so far as to help abusers commit crimes to get drugs, just to feel as if they are keeping the abuser close and in control. Although abusers may need to suffer some consequences, like time in prison, it can be tough for a family to allow that to happen.
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