Family Resources & Support
Addiction affects the entire family. Find support, guidance, and resources to help you navigate this challenging journey while taking care of yourself and your loved ones.
You Are Not Alone
Addiction is a family disease that affects everyone in the household. The stress, worry, and emotional turmoil of watching a loved one struggle with addiction can be overwhelming. It's important to remember that you didn't cause the addiction, you can't control it, and you can't cure it.
What you can do is take care of yourself, learn healthy coping strategies, and connect with others who understand what you're going through. Recovery is possible for both your loved one and your family.
Families affected by addiction often experience similar challenges and emotions
Addiction is a Medical Condition
Addiction is recognized by medical professionals as a chronic brain disease, not a moral failing or lack of willpower. Understanding this can help reduce blame and shame while promoting compassion and appropriate treatment.
You Didn't Cause It
Addiction has complex causes including genetics, environment, and brain chemistry. Family members are not responsible for causing the addiction.
You Can't Control It
No amount of love, threats, or manipulation can force someone to get sober. Recovery must come from their own decision and commitment.
You Can't Cure It
Addiction requires professional treatment and ongoing support. Family love alone cannot cure the disease, though it can support recovery.
Boundaries protect your wellbeing while avoiding enabling behaviors
Connect with others who understand your experience through these support organizations
Support groups for families and friends of alcoholics
Website:
al-anon.org
Helpline:
1-888-4AL-ANON (1-888-425-2666)
Services:
- •In-person meetings
- •Online meetings
- •Literature and resources
- •Sponsorship program
Support for families and friends affected by drug addiction
Website:
nar-anon.org
Helpline:
1-818-773-9999
Services:
- •Family support meetings
- •Educational materials
- •Recovery tools
- •Local meeting finder
Support for families dealing with drug abuse and behavioral problems
Website:
familiesanonymous.org
Helpline:
1-847-294-5877
Services:
- •Weekly meetings
- •Phone support
- •Online resources
- •Recovery literature
Evidence-based support for families using practical tools
Website:
smartrecovery.org/family
Helpline:
1-866-951-5357
Services:
- •CBT-based approach
- •Online meetings
- •Self-help tools
- •Family education
Al-Anon is specifically designed for families and friends of people with drinking problems
What is Al-Anon?
Al-Anon Family Groups are a fellowship of relatives and friends of alcoholics who share their experience, strength, and hope to solve their common problems. Al-Anon meetings provide support and guidance for anyone whose life has been affected by someone else's drinking.
What You'll Find at Al-Anon:
- Understanding people who've faced similar challenges
- Tools for dealing with the effects of someone else's drinking
- A safe space to share without judgment
- Hope for a better life regardless of whether the alcoholic stops drinking
How to Find Al-Anon Meetings:
Online Meeting Finder:
Visit al-anon.org and use their meeting locator
Phone Information:
Call 1-888-4AL-ANON (1-888-425-2666)
Virtual Meetings:
Online meetings available 24/7 in multiple languages
Well-meaning family members sometimes inadvertently enable addictive behavior
Taking care of yourself is not selfish - it's necessary for your wellbeing and your ability to help others
Physical Health
- Regular exercise
- Adequate sleep
- Healthy nutrition
- Medical checkups
Mental Health
- Therapy or counseling
- Support groups
- Stress management
- Mindfulness practices
Social Support
- Maintain friendships
- Family activities
- Hobbies and interests
- Community involvement
Support is Available for Your Family
You don't have to face this alone. Professional guidance and family support services can help you navigate this difficult time while maintaining your own wellbeing.
Available 24/7 • Completely Confidential • Family-Focused Support