Alcoholism, or Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is often called a “family disease” because its effects go far beyond the individual struggling with addiction. In rural communities like Wangaratta, where isolation and limited resources can exacerbate the problem, the impact of alcoholism can be devastating. This article looks at the many ways alcoholism affects families, the neurobiology of addiction and pathways to recovery and prevention.
Alcoholism: A Family Disease
Alcoholism within family systems creates conditions that perpetuate the addiction and influence the behaviour of its members. Family members develop patterns of behaviour in response to the alcoholic. These behaviours often unintentionally enable the addiction by shielding the person from the consequences of their actions. This is called codependency. Mental health professionals are increasingly recognising addiction as a disease that thrives within and is enabled by these family systems. The family is often ignored and left out of the treatment of addictive disease. Each person is affected and should receive treatment for their own benefit and healing, but in addition to benefiting the individual themselves, this also helps to support the addict/alcoholic in their recovery.
The Biology of Addiction: How Alcohol Affects the Brain
At its core, alcoholism is a disease of the brain chemistry. Alcohol acts on several neurotransmitter systems, most notably increasing dopamine release in the brain’s reward pathways. Over time chronic alcohol consumption leads to neuroadaptation, where the brain becomes dependent on alcohol to feel OK. This is caused by compulsions due to changes to the reward centres in the brain. When alcohol is withdrawn the brain becomes hyper excitable and withdrawal symptoms like tremors, anxiety and in severe cases seizures occur. Understanding these neurobiological mechanisms is key to understanding the compulsive nature of addiction and developing effective treatment.
Emotional Chaos: The Psychological Impact on Families
Living with an alcoholic can be emotionally brutal. Spouses, children and other family members often experience a range of negative emotions including anxiety, depression, shame and anger. Children may feel neglected, insecure and responsible for the drinking. Relationships become strained and communication breaks down and the environment becomes toxic for everyone involved. The uncertainty and unpredictability of living with an alcoholic can also cause chronic stress and trauma.
Financial Costs: The Cost of Alcoholism on Families
Beyond the emotional toll, alcoholism often brings significant financial stress. The cost of alcohol itself, plus job loss, health costs and legal fees can quickly drain a family’s resources. Financial instability can exacerbate existing stressors and create more tension within the family unit.
Domestic Violence and Alcohol: A Deadly Mix
Unfortunately alcohol abuse is often linked to domestic violence. Alcohol impairs judgment and increases impulsivity making people more prone to aggression. Not everyone who drinks alcohol becomes violent but the presence of alcohol increases the risk of physical, emotional and psychological abuse within the family.
Recovery Pathways: Treatment Options
For those seeking recovery from alcoholism there are many treatment options available. Inpatient rehabilitation centres like Highlands Recovery in Sydney offer intensive structured programs that address the physical, psychological and social aspects of addiction. These programs involve individual therapy, group counselling and medical support to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse. Understanding and processing underlying trauma is also a critical component of recovery and facilities often incorporate trauma focused cognitive therapy (TF-CBT). Addressing trauma through TF-CBT can give people tools to manage difficult emotions and build healthier coping mechanisms. According to this approach, individuals can build resilience and reduce relapse risk by understanding their triggers.
Community Support in Recovery
Recovery is not a solo journey; it requires the support of family, friends and the community. Local support groups and community organisations can provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and families to share their experiences, learn coping strategies and connect with others who get what they are going through.
Breaking the Cycle: Prevention Strategies for Future Generations
Prevention requires a multifaceted approach that addresses individual, family and community factors. Education about the risks of alcohol abuse, early intervention programs for at-risk youth and community based programs to promote responsible drinking can all play a role in reducing the incidence of alcoholism and its devastating effects.
By understanding the complexities of alcoholism and its impact on families and working together to provide support and resources the Wangaratta community can help break the cycle of addiction and create a healthier future for everyone.