Entries by Andy Buccaro

Family Roles in Addiction – 7 Roles Perpetuating Addiction

Substance use disorders rarely affect just one person—they ripple through families, changing how everyone interacts.  When a loved one struggles with addiction, family members can unintentionally fall into habits that keep the cycle going.  Understanding these family roles in addiction is crucial for both preventing and treating addiction. How Can Family Influence Addiction? Genetics can […]

Does Alcoholism Run in Families? Understanding Your Risk

Alcohol addiction—also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD)—is a devastating, complex illness that affects millions of families in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and across the country. One of the most common questions people ask is: Does alcohol addiction run in families? The answer is yes—alcohol addiction often runs in families, influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. […]

How Do I Talk to a Family Member About Their Addiction? 

Talking to a loved one about addiction is never easy. Many people hesitate out of fear—fear of conflict, fear of pushing them away, or simply fear of saying the wrong thing. However, avoiding the issue can allow addiction to take a deeper hold, making recovery even harder. If you’re wondering, “How do I talk to […]

Steps to Help Someone with Addiction – A Comprehensive Guide

Watching a loved one struggle with addiction can be overwhelming. You may feel helpless, frustrated, or even guilty, unsure of what steps to take to support them. While you cannot force someone to recover, you can play a crucial role in encouraging them to seek help and creating a supportive environment for their journey. Recovery […]

How to Know If You Have a Drinking Problem – Signs & Solutions

Have you ever asked yourself, “Do I have a drinking problem?” You’re not alone. Studies show that nearly 29 million Americans struggle with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), and many more experience unhealthy drinking habits without realizing it. Recognizing the signs early can make all the difference in preventing long-term consequences. Understanding how to know if […]

What Resources Are Available for Families of Addicts?

When a loved one is battling addiction, the whole family feels the impact. You don’t have to face this challenge alone—there are numerous support options available to help you navigate this difficult journey and prioritize your well-being. This guide highlights crucial resources for families dealing with addiction, providing actionable steps to foster healing and resilience: […]

How to Help a Drug Addict Family Member

Watching someone you love spiral into addiction is heartbreaking. It’s natural to feel helpless and unsure of the best way to support them. However, there are compassionate, evidence-based strategies that can guide you through this challenging journey. If you’re wondering how to help a drug addict family member, this article provides practical steps to recognize […]

Are Virtual Addiction Recovery Programs Effective?

The landscape of addiction recovery is evolving, with more people than ever turning to virtual addiction recovery programs for help. Recent data shows that telehealth adoption surged by 154% during the COVID-19 pandemic, forever transforming how healthcare is delivered. So, are virtual addiction recovery programs effective? Yes—research and real-world outcomes show that virtual programs can […]

Effects of Drug Addiction on Family Members – 10 Key Impacts

Drug addiction is a global crisis, affecting individuals across all socioeconomic levels. According to the 2023 World Drug Report, more than 36 million people globally suffer from substance use disorders, with increasing rates of drug use driven by social inequalities, mental health challenges, and economic stressors.  In the United States alone, around 21 million Americans […]

How to Help an Alcoholic Family Member – 8 Essential Steps

Alcoholism affects millions of families worldwide, with studies showing that over 7.5 million children in the U.S. live with at least one parent who struggles with alcohol addiction. The devastating impact of alcoholism not only affects the individual but ripples throughout the family, creating emotional and psychological challenges for everyone involved. With such a widespread […]