Substance abuse by one family member creates a major imbalance in family functioning and forces other members to change their usual roles and responsibilities. These adaptations are often developed to cope with the stress, uncertainty, and disruption caused by addiction. Although some changes may temporarily help the family manage daily life, they often become unhealthy patterns that maintain dysfunction and interfere with recovery. In substance abuse counseling and family therapy, understanding these role adaptations is essential because addiction affects the entire family system rather than only the individual using substances. Family systems theory explains that each member influences and is influenced by others. When one member develops substance dependence, the family attempts to restore balance by changing roles and behaviours. These adaptations may reduce immediate conflict but usually increase emotional strain over time. Family members often become trapped in