Introduction: Alcohol is a psychoactive substance that has been used for centuries in various cultures and has properties that can cause addiction. Harmful use of alcohol causes health problems and has social, economic and social consequences. Alcohol does not only negatively affect the person who consumes it, but also family members, friends, colleagues and others. Purpose: The aim of this thesis is to identify the role of the family in treatment of alcohol addiction and the importance of family involvement in ensuring optimal treatment outcomes. Methods: The thesis employs a descriptive method, reviewing the professional and scientific literature on the role and ways of family involvement in the treatment of alcohol addiction. The literature search was conducted in databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL Ultimate, Google scholar and COBIB.SI) and search engines (PubMed) via the University of Ljubljana digital library. The articles were searched in English and Slovenian language, one of them is in Spanish. The literature review was conducted from articles published from 2014 onwards and includes the population undergoing treatment for alcohol dependence and their family involved in the process. The articles used were full-text articles that are freely available to students at the University of Ljubljana Faculty of Health Sciences. Results: Family has an important influence on the successful outcome of alcohol addiction treatment. There are many approaches to involving family members, but they all share common goals such as improved communication and relationships, understanding of problems, problem solving and cessation of drinking. Despite the positive impact of family involvement in the treatment process, it is important to recognize the suitability of family members for their involvement. During the treatment process, it is not only the person who is dependent on alcohol who receives help, but the whole family. Discussion and conclusion: The success of alcohol addiction treatment is significantly increased when family members are involved in the process. Their support and involvement have an impact on recovery and maintaining abstinence. Health care providers play an important role in involving family members, providing guidance, counselling, information and quality care for the whole family.
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