Resources For Family, Friends, and Concerned Others

Community Support Programs

There are several support groups available for family members of individuals suffering from substance use disorder. Some of the most widely known ones include:

  • Al-Anon: Al-Anon is a fellowship of people who have been affected by someone else's drinking. It provides support and understanding to family members and friends of alcoholics. Al-Anon meetings offer a safe space to share experiences, strength, and hope with others who have faced similar challenges.

  • Nar-Anon: Similar to Al-Anon, Nar-Anon offers support to family members and friends of individuals struggling with drug addiction, particularly narcotics. Nar-Anon meetings provide a supportive environment to share concerns, learn coping strategies, and receive encouragement from others who understand.

  • Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA): ACA is a support group for adults who grew up in dysfunctional or alcoholic families. It provides a platform for individuals to address the effects of growing up in such environments and to work towards healing and recovery.

  • SMART Recovery Family & Friends: SMART Recovery offers a specific program for family and friends of individuals struggling with addiction. It focuses on providing tools and strategies based on cognitive-behavioral therapy principles to help loved ones cope with the challenges of supporting someone in recovery.

  • Families Anonymous: Families Anonymous is a 12-step fellowship for family members and friends of individuals with drug, alcohol, or related behavioral issues. It offers a supportive environment where participants can share experiences, gain insights, and find hope for recovery.

  • PAL (Parents of Addicted Loved Ones): PAL is a support group specifically designed for parents dealing with a child or young adult suffering from substance use disorder. It provides education, support, and resources to help parents navigate the challenges of supporting their loved ones in recovery.

These support groups offer valuable resources, guidance, and community for family members and friends affected by substance use disorder. It's essential to find the right fit for individual needs and preferences, as each group may have a slightly different focus or approach.

Family members of those suffering substance use disorder can educate themselves on the disease of addiction through various resources and organizations.

Some avenues for education include:

  1. Online Resources: There are numerous websites and online platforms dedicated to providing information and education about addiction. Websites like the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), and Partnership to End Addiction offer comprehensive resources, articles, and guides for families affected by addiction. For guidelines on helping children cope with a parent’s alcoholism, contact the National Association for Children of Alcoholics.

  2. Books and Literature: There are countless books written by experts in the field of addiction, as well as personal memoirs and accounts from individuals who have struggled with addiction and their families. Some recommended books include "Beautiful Boy" by David Sheff, "Clean: Overcoming Addiction and Ending America's Greatest Tragedy" by David Sheff, and "Beyond Addiction: How Science and Kindness Help People Change" by Jeffrey Foote, Carrie Wilkens, and Nicole Kosanke.

  3. Support Groups: As mentioned earlier, support groups like Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, and Families Anonymous not only provide emotional support but also offer educational resources and materials for family members. Attending meetings and engaging with other members can provide valuable insights and information about addiction.

  4. Therapy and Counseling: Family therapy or counseling sessions with a qualified therapist who specializes in addiction can be immensely helpful for educating family members about the disease. Therapists can provide personalized education, guidance, and coping strategies for dealing with the challenges of addiction within the family dynamic.

  5. Workshops and Seminars: Look for workshops, seminars, or conferences in your area that focus on addiction education for family members. These events often feature experts in the field who provide valuable insights, research findings, and practical advice for supporting loved ones with addiction.

  6. Local Treatment Centers: Many addiction treatment centers offer educational programs and resources for family members. These may include workshops, support groups, or educational materials designed to help families understand addiction and learn how to support their loved one in recovery.

By exploring these resources and avenues for education, family members can gain a deeper understanding of addiction and learn effective strategies for supporting their loved one's recovery journey.