Many people who enter treatment facilities and support groups for alcoholism begin to get an understanding of the pain they have caused their friends and family members. This can be a challenging time, because we learn about the ways we have hurt other people, whether we remember those moments or not. While painful, these are moments of growth because we are learning more about our addiction and how it transforms us into someone we’re not – by learning the ways in which alcoholism deeply affects our family, we can gain more perspective into our addiction and how harmful it truly is.
According to The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, approximately 17.6 million people, or one in every 12 adults suffers from alcohol use disorder (AUD). Connecticut Clearinghouse estimates that 76 million Americans have been exposed to alcoholism in the family, and almost one in five Americans have lived with a person who suffered from alcoholism while growing up. These numbers are very large – with millions of families impacted, the effects of alcoholism are devastating.
Studies have shown that children who grow up in families that have alcoholism are more at risk for developing alcoholism themselves. As children are growing up, they gain their perceptions of how much, how often, and where to consume alcohol from their parents and other influential family members. A 2015 study conducted by researchers Park and Schepp from the University of Washington found that children who grow up with alcoholic parents tend to show negative outcome such as depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, substance abuse or interpersonal difficulties.
Marriages are also affected. Alcoholism leads to many divorces – as most spouses are unsure how to handle their partner’s alcoholism and may have concerns about parenting, abuse, financial stability, and more. Several other impacts of alcoholism: neglect of important duties at home and work, taking time away from work and family to nurse hangovers, encountering legal problems, domestic violence, drinking while driving, and more.
The Connecticut Clearinghouse stated that alcohol is a key factor in 68% of manslaughters, 62% of assaults, 54% of murders and attempted murders, 48% of robberies, and 44% of burglaries. Alcoholism changes people and causes them to make irresponsible decisions which can affect all of those around them. Some of those choices may prove fatal – alcoholism inhibits someone from thinking clearly and acting responsibly.
Alcoholism impacts millions – if you suffer from alcoholism, reach out for help now. Seek a treatment facility and a therapist – there are many people out there waiting to help you recover. Recovery could mean saving your marriage, your family, and your life – make that first step today and call New Vista Behavioral Health for information on one of our treatment providers. Our programs are held to higher standards, ensuring that they provide exceptional care for healing mind, body, and spirit. As a result, our clients have better outcomes, for a better life. Call us today for information: 888-316-3665
