Alcoholism and drug abuse are often referred to as family diseases because the serious negative consequences of addiction and the importance of recovery affect not only the substance abuser, but all members of the family. Substance abuse can devastate and disrupt even the most stable of families, increasing the risk of family violence/abuse, divorce, financial problems, trauma, grief, potential overdose, and exposure to crime. Men and women in the recovery programs at Serenity House often need to use the family's strengths and resources to help develop or find new ways to live without substances of abuse or dependence, and the education of family members is crucial to beginning this process. The weekly Family Education program at Serenity House offers families the opportunity to learn about the disease of addiction, how it affects their loved ones and themselves, different ways to implement change, and reinforce positive outcomes.

Family members are an important group that is often neglected during the treatment phase of a recovering individual. Many times they do not understand the biological, psychological, and sociological consequences of addiction and are therefore unprepared to assist their loved one throughout treatment and into the ongoing recovery process. The Family Education program works with the family to provide information on substance abuse and addiction, dispel myths, and alter attitudes and behaviors. This 12-week program offers insight and education, as well as the opportunity to engage family members to encourage and support the client during their time in treatment and beyond. Using the evidence-based Matrix Model ® approach, the program focus is on educating, supporting, and reinforcing positive behavior change.

James had been in and out of treatment programs since he was arrested on a marijuana possession charge when he was 18. Marijuana was just one of many drugs that James took to get high, and he soon began to abuse alcohol before he could even legally purchase it. His drug and alcohol use continued to get worse and it began to take its toll on both himself and his family. He dropped out of high school and couldn't keep a job because of his behaviors under the influence. He turned to stealing from his family members to support his drinking and drug use, selling or pawning valuable jewelry and other personal items. He refused to be responsible for his actions and was given an ultimatum – either get help or get out. James finally agreed to come to Serenity House for the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and while receiving treatment there, his parents found a program was offered that might help their family as well.

Frank and Sarah could not understand why their son did the things he did. They were frustrated and hurt by his actions. They didn't know why James couldn't simply stop the self-destructive behavior that was destroying their family. The Family Education program provided them with education about the disease of addiction and the toll it takes on the loved ones and others that surround the addicted individual. They learned how to communicate with each other in new ways, ways that would lead to an overall improvement in family functioning. Through therapeutic discussions, problem-solving sessions, and an increased willingness to learn to trust, the healing began.

The goals of the Serenity House Family Education program are to increase the motivation of the individual in treatment, reduce the risk of relapse, increase skills for coping with relapse incidents, and to increase family crisis support and understanding. James remains involved in the IOP program at Serenity House, is alcohol and drug free, and continues to work on his relationship with his family and with others. Frank and Sarah also continue to participate in the weekly Family Education groups and now help other parents who have found themselves in similar situations.