Is Addiction Hereditary? How to Help a Loved One Start Recovery Today
Addiction affects EVERYONE, not just addicts. This means our mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, friends, and coworkers, so is addiction hereditary? Addiction can and will affect those around you just as much as it affects the addict, both emotionally and financially . It can be a challenge to figure out how to help a loved one who seems totally lost, but this article is going to focus on the specific steps that you need to take in order to get your loved one into treatment and on the road to recovery!
Addiction Affects Everyone—Not Just the Individual
Addiction is more than a personal struggle—it impacts families, friendships, and workplaces. Whether it’s a parent, sibling, partner, or friend, the emotional and financial toll can be significant. Supporting a loved one with addiction can feel overwhelming, but taking action today can change their life—and yours.
Quick Overview
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Addiction impacts the entire family unit.
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Medical detox is often the first step in recovery.
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Detox addresses painful withdrawal symptoms safely.
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Medications help manage cravings and discomfort.
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It’s never too late to start the recovery journey.
Need help now? Call More Life Recovery at 1 (888) 825-8689 for 24/7 support.
Understanding Addiction and Taking the First Step
Overcoming addiction is challenging, especially when trying to support someone from the outside. You may see the damage it causes, but your loved one may not fully realize the problem. Denial, fear, and shame often delay recovery. That’s why starting today is so important. Waiting only deepens the impact and gives addiction more control.
Admitting There’s a Problem
The first step in any recovery plan is admitting the problem exists. This can be the hardest part. Even if life is falling apart, many people still deny their addiction. Once they accept the issue, the next step is creating a plan. This usually includes contacting a treatment center. If your loved one isn’t ready, consider making that first call yourself. Check availability and be persistent.
Why Medical Detox Comes First
For many, medical detox is essential before treatment begins. Detox isn’t a delay—it’s the first step. It clears drugs or alcohol from the system and allows the body to stabilize. Medical detox is safer and more comfortable than going “cold turkey” at home.
Without detox, many individuals won’t make it to treatment. Withdrawal can be painful—and even dangerous. Medical detox uses medications and monitoring to manage this process safely.
Substances That Often Require Detox
1. Alcohol: Withdrawal may cause tremors, anxiety, seizures, or hallucinations. Medical supervision is often required.
2. Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Ativan): These sedatives can trigger severe withdrawal, similar to alcohol.
3. Opioids (e.g., heroin, oxycodone): Symptoms resemble the flu—nausea, chills, anxiety—but aren’t usually life-threatening.
4. Prescription Drugs (e.g., gabapentin, sleep meds): Misuse can create unique withdrawal challenges.
5. Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, meth): Symptoms may include fatigue and depression but are usually non-lethal.
6. Synthetic Drugs (e.g., fentanyl, bath salts): Effects vary, but detox helps manage severe reactions.
Getting the Help You Need
Help is available. Whether you speak to your doctor, therapist, or a treatment center, you don’t have to go through this alone. At More Life Recovery, we believe in compassionate care and long-term success. All it takes is one step forward. If your loved one won’t call, you can make the call for them. Support them without enabling. Be their guide—not their excuse.
You Are Not Alone
When you walk into a recovery program, you’re not just joining a treatment plan—you’re joining a community. Others understand your struggles, and you won’t be judged. Real conversations and real support make a huge difference in recovery.
Is It Too Late to Recover?
No. If you’re still breathing, it’s not too late. Addiction can be beaten at any stage. You don’t have to do it alone, and you don’t have to wait for a “perfect” moment. Today is enough.
Conclusion: Recovery Starts Now
Addiction may run in families, but so does recovery. If you or someone you love is suffering, take the first step. Help is just a phone call away. Contact More Life Recovery in Metuchen, New Jersey today. We’ll walk with you through every stage of recovery, offering expert support and a personalized plan that works for you.
📞 Call us at 1 (888) 825-8689
🌐 Visit: https://moreliferecoverycenter.com
Resources
- SAMHSA – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- National Institute of Mental Health
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
- AddictionCenter.com – Dual Diagnosis Overview
Contact More Life Recovery Center
Need help managing a dual diagnosis? Call our caring professionals today at 1 (888) 825-8689 or visit moreliferecoverycenter.com to get started. We’re here for you, every step of the way.