Addiction is a chemical response in the brain, which is triggered by substance dependency, gambling, internet and sexual behaviors. There can also be a genetic component to addiction. Co-dependency by family members struggling with the addict’s behaviors can feel like a daily battle- trying to determine what is helpful to the addicted loved one and what is harmful to the addicted individual. Often times when we are raised in a family where addiction is present, it has a lasting impact on our view of the world and on relationships. Addictive behaviors often start in adolescence and can cause a tremendous amount of stress on the family unit and those that love the addict.
