When an opioid abuser is in the home, their addiction can have a ripple effect on everyone around them. Just as a person with an opioid use disorder needs access to comprehensive care to begin their recovery journey, family members need support to cope with these difficult times.

The Impact of Opioid Abuse on Children

Children who live with a parent or caregiver who suffers from an opioid use disorder are affected in a number of ways, regardless of their age.

• Emotional development. When a parent or caregiver is struggling with opioid addiction, they may be too wrapped up in their own problems to provide the love and support that their child needs. This can lead to feelings of abandonment and insecurity that increase a child’s risk of developing serious mental health disorders that last into adulthood.
• Physical development. If a parent or caregiver is using these drugs, they may not be able to care for their child properly. The child may not get enough food or lack access to a safe place to sleep or play. When they are ill, they may not get the necessary medical attention.
• Cognitive development. If a parent or caregiver is using these drugs, they may not be able to provide the stimulation that a child needs for healthy cognitive development. This can lead to decreased performance at school and negatively affect the child’s future employment opportunities.

Growing up with a parent or caregiver who abuses opioids also increases the risk that a child will develop their own substance abuse issues. They may start using drugs or alcohol at a young age in an attempt to cope with the chaotic environment they are living in.

The Effects of Opioid Abuse on Spouses

When your spouse suffers from an opioid use disorder, your entire world may feel like it has been turned upside down.

• Financial strain. The most obvious effect of substance abuse is financial strain, as money may be diverted away from other important needs like food or rent to pay for drugs. There is also the risk that your spouse may lose their job due to addiction-related performance issues. People with opioid use disorders may borrow money from others, accumulate extensive credit card debt, or even file for bankruptcy.
• Emotional distress. Spouses may feel powerless when trying to help their partner overcome drug use. This often leads to feelings of guilt and frustration, as well as an increased risk of depression and anxiety. Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions may find it particularly difficult to cope with a spouse’s opioid use disorder.
• Isolation. Often, spouses will try to hide their partner’s addiction by making excuses for their behavior when others express concern. They may also need to take on more responsibilities around the home to maintain a sense of normalcy, which can further increase their sense of isolation.

Most people who suffer from an opioid use disorder are not a danger to others. However, opioid use, especially when opioids are combined with alcohol, can sometimes cause mood swings that lead to physical aggression. When an opioid use disorder results in domestic violence, you may be forced to leave the relationship for your own safety. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides resources that can help victims of domestic violence protect themselves and their children.

How Families Can Cope with a Loved One’s Substance Use Disorder

It’s important that families facing addiction find ways to cope with their situation while also working towards getting help for their addicted loved one.

• Learning about opioid use disorders. Understanding how opioids affect users both physically and psychologically helps families make informed decisions about how best to approach their situation and what kind of treatment might be most effective for their loved one.
• Asking for help from friends and extended family members. Even if you’ve been trying to hide your loved one’s addiction from others, your friends and extended family members have likely noticed there is a cause for concern. Working together to plan an intervention may convince your loved one to get the treatment they need to begin their recovery journey.
• Working with mental health professionals. Mental health professionals, such as counselors and therapists, can provide nonjudgmental support for families dealing with addiction. This is particularly important for young children who may not fully understand why their parent has developed an opioid use disorder or for victims of domestic violence who need help processing their trauma.
• Seeking assistance from support groups. Groups such as Nar-Anon can help you feel less alone by connecting you with others dealing with similar challenges. Narateen can offer support for teenagers who wish to discuss their concerns in a group with their peers.
• Making time for self-care. Family members should take care of themselves by engaging in activities they enjoy that provide respite from the stress of dealing with addiction issues at home. Children should be encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities at school, while adults should schedule time each week for hobbies or special interests that bring them joy.

At St. Joseph Institute for Addiction, we’ve seen the devastating effects of the opioid epidemic firsthand. However, we firmly believe that there is always hope for recovery. Contact us today to learn more about how our Pennsylvania substance abuse treatment center helps your loved one take the first steps toward a brighter future.

Looking for addiction treatment near Altoona, PA? To learn more about SJI Pennsylvania addiction rehab, and our programs, please contact us at (888) 352-3297.