The Family Program at The Hanley Center

I'm going to the family weekend at Hanley and got an email asking for more info. Here it is...

The Family Program provides family members with an opportunity to gain insight into the ways in which they have been affected by the family disease of chemical dependency and to learn how to recover from the effects of the disease. Alcoholics and addicts, and those who love them and are closest to them, are affected physically, mentally, emotionally, socially and spiritually. As the disease progresses, many family members become so focused on the addict or alcoholic that they lose the ability to take care of themselves.

Physically, you may suffer from stress-related illnesses. You may not be eating well, sleeping well or exercising.

Mentally, you can become obsessed, preoccupied and forgetful. You may have a hard time concentrating because of worry and racing thoughts. You can also develop mental defenses similar to the addict or alcoholic, such as denial and minimization.

Emotionally, you may be anxious, fearful, depressed, lonely, angry and overwhelmed, but the common way for dealing with these feelings is to bury them. Burying feelings can result in physical problems and overreacting to minor incidents because of a buildup of unresolved tension.

Socially, you might withdraw and become isolated, ceasing to participate in activities and hobbies that were once enjoyable. You can become disconnected from yourself, others and life.

Spiritually, you might find yourself violating your values to protect the addict or alcoholic and over time begin to lose faith, hope and a purpose for living.

Hanley Center’s Family Program is an educational, supportive and nonconfrontational group experience for family members, friends and significant others who have been affected by another person’s alcoholism and chemical dependency. The program consists of lectures, videos and group discussions on alcohol and drug addiction, relapse, family dynamics and the effects of addiction on children as well as the recovery process. Family Program participants also receive information about Al-Anon, CODA (Co-dependents Anonymous), and other 12-Step support groups to assist in their recovery.

The group consists of family members and patients at the Hanley Center who are not related to each other. This type of group creates an opportunity for alcoholics, addicts and family members to be able to share openly with each other without the typical emotional reactions and conflict that often occur within a chemically dependent family system. The result is that addicts, alcoholics and family members are able to gain a deeper awareness and understanding of each other. Each participant shares at the level that he or she feels comfortable. As group members share their feelings and experiences, they form meaningful connections with one another and begin to realize that they are not alone.

Who can attend?

The Family Program is offered to people in the community who have been affected by someone’s addiction and to anyone who has a loved one in treatment. Participants must be 18 years and older. Patients in residential treatment at the Hanley Center may have one person attend the Family Program at no charge. The cost of hotel accommodations is also included for those who reside outside Palm Beach County. Other family members and significant others may attend at an additional fee.

How can it benefit me? Why do I need to participate?

The Family Program provides valuable information, support and encouragement to individuals affected by another person’s addiction. Many family members are unaware of how deeply they have been affected by their loved one’s addiction and they may be confused about their role in supporting their loved one in recovery. Participants can discuss their concerns and ask questions so that they can make well-informed decisions. Groups are facilitated by Family Program counselors.

When is the Family Program offered?

The Family Program is a three-day program, beginning Friday morning and ending Sunday afternoon. It is offered every weekend. Call 1-800-444-7008 or 561-841-1000 to register or to receive additional information.

Do I need to participate in all three days?

Participants are expected to attend all three days. The program is sequential in nature. Each session builds on the material covered in the previous session.

If I am not able to attend the Family Program while my loved one is in treatment, can I come at another time?

Patients participate in the Family Program while they are in treatment. If you cannot attend the Family Program while your loved one is in treatment, you have up to one year from your loved one’s discharge date to take advantage of the free Family Program weekend (free for one family member).

Can my children participate in the Family Program?

The Family Program is designed for adults 18 and older. If you live in the area, you can bring your children to the Kids and Teens Place on Thursday evening, which is facilitated by the Prevention Department. For more information call 561-841-1214.

Can I visit with my loved one while I am in the Family Program?
Yes, you can spend time with your loved one during visitation which is scheduled every afternoon.

*all info taken from The Hanley Center website