While the addict may want to believe their behaviors do not harm those around them, the effects of substance use go far beyond the person caught in the center of it all. Addiction, like many other diseases, can have a strong hold on loved ones, destroying any semblance of hope.  

At Brookdale, we believe it is imperative for the family to participate in the treatment process, as it strengthens the potential for long-term success.  During our Family Educational Program, loved ones can begin to heal emotionally, understand the complexity of substance use disorders, and address how they have played a role in the cycle of addiction.  

The effects of substance abuse are astronomical, for both the user and their loved ones. The pain and suffering of the family is often underestimated when compared to that of the addicted person. At Brookdale, we strongly believe in helping the entire family unit heal, because, after all, addiction is a family disease.  

Families who live with addiction often experience high levels of stress, patterns of denial, and feelings of anger and sadness. While the person diagnosed with substance use disorder is certainly suffering, those who love them the most also endure the pain of this disease. You may ask yourself, “How could this have happened to my family?” or “Could I have done something differently?”  

Firstly, addiction does not discriminate. It doesn’t care who you are or what kind of family you come from. It knows no social, economic or religious bounds.  Secondly, you cannot blame yourself for your loved one’s addiction, and you, alone, cannot stop it. Al-Anon reminds us of the Three C’s: 

• “I did not Cause it.” 
• “I cannot Cure it.” 
• “I cannot Control it.” 

It’s certain that the patient coming to us for treatment is not the only person in need of help. During our Family Program, loved ones can begin to address how they have been affected by addiction. Common feelings and behaviors among family members include:  

It is time to be part of the solution, for both yourself and your loved one. When the entire family participates in the recovery process, they learn how to become supportive members in the patient’s recovery and future. More importantly, families can begin to heal from the emotional turmoil, ultimately finding peace for themselves.   

What to Expect from Brookdale’s Family Program 

Brookdale offers a Family Educational Weekend Program, as well as weekly online support services. It is strongly recommended that families and loved ones of the patient participate in both. Our Family Program will provide support, education, and hope for those that have experienced the effects of loving someone with an addiction. This also serves as a great opportunity for families to be actively involved in the treatment process, a crucial component in the patient’s success.  

Frequently Asked Questions About the Family Program

• I’m not the one with a problem, why should I attend a program?  

Attending the program gives the family tools to help their loved one through treatment and early recovery. It also allows Brookdale to address any fears and concerns the family may have. Families that get educated, dramatically increase the chance of their loved one’s recovery and success.   

• Can anyone in the family attend the weekend program? 

Anyone, family or friend, that is 12 years or older can attend the Family Educational Program.   

• Is there an age restriction for the family weekend? Should small children stay home? 

It is recommended that children stay home with a sitter or relative during this weekend.  Nevertheless, if children do come to the hotel, family must bring a relative or sitter to watch that child during the program. They may join the family for meals.  

• What kind of activities/groups will I be attending during this weekend? 

The weekend is comprised of lectures and groups to educate the attendees on the disease of addiction, the effects on the family, and the recovery process. These groups take place in a very comfortable setting and at no time, is anyone put in a position to speak about something they are uncomfortable with.  However, attendance at all groups and lectures is required.  

• Why can’t I visit with my loved one during this weekend?  

The patient stays at Brookdale while the family is attending the program. This gives the family an opportunity to ask any questions they may have, without worrying about their loved one’s reaction. It also gives the family a chance to experience any feelings and express any thoughts or concerns they may have.  The family will visit and have lunch with their loved one on Sunday at Brookdale, at the completion of the weekend.   

• I’ve already attended these programs in the past, why should I have to do it again? 

Oftentimes, family members have been to day long programs in the past but have never attended an entire weekend program. At minimum, if family members have not been to a 3–day program in the past, Brookdale encourages them to participate in ours. For families who have been to a weekend program in the past, it is important to remember that their loved one is now in a different stage of their recovery journey, and it would be beneficial to attend.  

• If I live close to the hotel, and do not want to stay overnight, can I still attend? 

If attendees live close to the hotel, they can commute and not incur the cost of the hotel room. 

• What SHOULDN’T I bring with me? 

Please try to leave any work at home, so you can focus on the information over the weekend. Alcohol/drugs are also prohibited during the weekend.  

• What should I bring? 

Bring comfortable, casual clothes and a bathing suit if you want to use the pool. Remember any medications you need to take. 

• Can I have my cell phone during this time?  

Cell phones are asked to stay off during groups and to be used at a minimum during breaks. 

• How many family members can go at a time?  

There is no limit to how many family members/friends can attend. You can fit up to 4 people in a room. 

• I have a busy work schedule and cannot attend until after my loved one has been discharged. Can I still attend?  

If someone cannot attend during their loved one’s stay at Brookdale, they are welcome to attend at any time after discharge.