Summary:
This literature review argues that substance use disorders (SUDs) deeply affect entire family systems, not just the individual with addiction, causing emotional strain, role shifts, and financial stress within families. Because of these wide-ranging impacts, the author emphasizes that treatment frameworks should intentionally include families, addressing relational trauma rather than only focusing on the person with SUD.
The article challenges traditional views of codependency as a pathological trait and instead frames it as a normal stress response within high-strain family environments, reducing stigma and supporting healing. Integrating trauma-informed interventions — such as psychoeducation, boundary-setting skills, and evidence-based models like CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) — can improve family dynamics and enhance recovery outcomes.
Importantly, research shows that family involvement in treatment improves engagement, retention, and long-term recovery success. Programs that support families emotionally and equip them with communication and coping skills can reduce enabling behaviors, strengthen relationships, and help break intergenerational cycles of trauma and substance misuse.