Drug addiction not only affects the addict but the entire family, the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention reports. Family activities such as picnics, meal gatherings and playing board games may cease. Going to the mall, shopping, visiting relatives and other social activities may no longer occur as well. Arguing and fighting will likely increase in the home as the addict becomes more drug dependent.
Trust
The trust that family members often share disappears when active drug use occurs, the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention states. The addict may lie to family members to continue the drug habit. The drug addict might manipulate family members to get what he wants, such as money to support his habit.
Safety
Safety concerns may arise, particularly if the family home becomes a target for break-ins and negative drug-related influences. Police involvement may be necessary because of crimes committed in the home involving finances and missing valuables that the addict might sell to buy drugs, says MayoClinic.com.
Emotional Strain
The emotional strain on the drug addict's family life can cause many problems for the spouse as well as the children. Mood swings and manipulation can severely stress the family unit as members feel the ups and downs of the drug addict's decline. A spouse may decide to end a marriage, unable to bear the grief and strife within the home.
Child Neglect
Child neglect occurs as a result of the adult using drugs in the home. The addicted adult struggles to tend to the duties of child-rearing. The child’s grades may drop and she may exhibit signs of emotional strain such as crying and laughing inappropriately, the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention says. Changes in everyday emotional stability will be noticeable.
Health Issues and Stress
Ongoing problems of the drug addiction increases stress levels that affect a person’s home life and health. Family members of the addict may experience health changes such as increased blood pressure and anxiety, and they may need to seek outside medical and psychological support, the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention states.
