Drug Addiction and Family Effects

Drug addiction and family effects that come from that addiction are excruciating not only for the addict, but for those who love him as well.

The Children of Drug Addicts

A baby who has been exposed to drugs and alcohol in the womb will suffer low birth weight and problems in development.

As these children continue to grow, they suffer neglect. Typically, their addicted parents are too wrapped up in their own addictions to give these children the attention they need.

Because the addict is frequently at risk of spending time in jail, the children often wind up in foster care, where they are likely to suffer not only the trauma of being ripped from their homes, but also endure physical, emotional and sexual abuse in shelters.

The Wife or Husband of an Addict

The spouse of the addict endures both emotional and physical abuse. The wife or husband of a drug abuser typically must raise the children alone and deal with the wreckage of a spouse's addiction, including court and medical costs. Alone and often without any support, these marital partners feel isolated and helpless.

Parents Suffer as Well

The parents of a drug addict suffer the agony of watching their children destroy their bodies, minds and future. In addition, there is the violation of having money and other valuables stolen. The stress these parents endure can break marriages apart.

Drug Addiction and Family Effects -
Violence in the Home

Drugs such as crack, cocaine, methamphetamine and PCP among others can make drug addicts more physically violent. The use of methamphetamines can make the user especially dangerous. Mothers abusing meth can lose all maternal instincts and easily harm their children.

The Financial Costs of Addiction

The financial costs of being married to a drug addict are enormous. Nothing comes between the addict and his or her need for drugs. Money for the mortgage, for groceries and other needs go for drugs.

Because a person addicted to drugs is usually unable to hold down a job, these addicts cannot be depended upon for financial support.

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