Drug Addiction News Articles 

Addiction is a Family Disease

In this issue of News of Substance, we explore the role family plays in addiction. We’ll hear from a family therapist, a daughter who is giving back in response to her mother’s addiction, and from experts about the genetics of addiction.

In his book “Beautiful Boy: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Addiction,” David Sheff shares that “caring about an addict is as complex and fraught and debilitating as addiction itself.”

Fueling Connection Through Coffee

Jessica used to be scared to share her story- she noticed how people looked at her when she said her mom died of alcoholism in her 40s. But she’s not scared anymore. “I know that even if people don’t understand now, they will one day. Substance use and abuse is not an anomaly, it’s not a rare thing. I’ve found the more I share, the more power I have,” she remarked.

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Family Therapy Breakthroughs

Sarah Balkany describes the “special connection” she has with teens, and it is easy to see why. She effortlessly blends genuine empathy with a no-nonsense approach- a strong pull for teens craving connection and boundaries. Sarah is an adolescent and family therapist who has been with Arapahoe House since 2014. Certified in adolescent and family psychotherapy, Sarah firmly believes that you cannot work with an adolescent without working with their family.

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Is Addiction Genetic?

Addiction is often described as a “family disease.” That is a reflection of two phenomena-the disease’s genetic profile and its emotional impact on family systems. Between 40 and 70 percent of a person’s risk for developing a substance use disorder is genetic, and environmental factors interact with a person’s genes to modify that risk..

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Renowned Addiction Authors David and Nic Sheff to Deliver Keynote at Arapahoe House Luncheon in September

“David and Nic are two of the most prominent voices on addiction in the U.S.,” said Mike Butler, Arapahoe House CEO. “Their voices are now more important than ever in the context of the drug epidemic we face today. We are honored that they will not only speak on our behalf, but galvanize the community around this important cause.”

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