Family help for alcohol and drug addiction

When a family member is dependent on alcohol or other drugs, or experiencing substance use issues, it can affect everyone in the family. It is normal to feel worried, stressed, angry, upset or scared.

All families have different ways of coping, and there is no single ‘right’ way to respond. Support is available to help you work through alcohol and drug issues as a family, every step of the way.

Talking to someone#

If you are worried about a family member and are not sure how to help them, there are professionals you can talk to, starting with your doctor. Many regions also offer confidential telephone helplines that provide information, counseling and referrals for young people, adults, family members and others affected by drug or alcohol concerns. Many of these services operate around the clock.

Explaining addiction to a child#

For children whose parents have an addiction, life can sometimes feel confusing. There are good online resources that can support you to have open, age-appropriate conversations with young people about what is happening in their family.

If you are a child and your parent has an alcohol or drug addiction, it can help to talk to a trusted relative, such as an aunt, uncle or grandparent, or to your teacher or school counselor.

Coping strategies and courses#

Some organizations run courses for family members affected by someone’s alcohol or drug use. These courses offer practical information, coping strategies, life skills and the chance to connect with others through shared experiences. They are often led by professionals, some of whom have been affected by a loved one’s substance use themselves, and typically run over several weekly sessions.

A good course provides relevant information about addiction, how families respond, the process of change, and recovery. Many also offer advice and support over the phone.

Take care of yourself#

It is easy to forget about your own health and wellbeing when you are worried about a loved one. Over time, the stress of coping can take a toll physically and mentally, so take some time to look after yourself. If you feel you need extra support, speak with your doctor or a counselor.

Services for families#

Some programs are aimed specifically at families where a member has an alcohol or drug problem:

• Parent support programs – alcohol and drug workers can run group programs to help parents support a family member with a drug problem.
• Family counseling programs – which focus on drug and alcohol issues affecting the family.
• Family-inclusive services – many treatment services support people to involve their family members in assessments, planning and treatment decisions when accessing alcohol and other drug support.

Specialized services#

Many drug and alcohol services aim to provide a friendly, welcoming and culturally safe environment for all clients, including people from diverse cultural backgrounds and lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender-diverse, intersex, queer and asexual (LGBTIQA+) people, along with their families and friends.

There are also specific services for older adults and for people experiencing homelessness.

Help for older people#

There are many reasons older people develop alcohol or drug problems, including stress related to traumatic events, grief, boredom and depression. If you are concerned about an older member of your family, speak with your doctor or a local drug and alcohol service about the treatment options available.

Help for different cultures#

You or another family member may have particular cultural or language needs. When using a health service, you have a right to be communicated with in a way you can understand and that respects your cultural needs. A professional interpreter can usually be arranged at no cost – ask the person who answers your call to organize this. Be clear about the language or dialect you speak, and mention if you would prefer an interpreter of a particular gender.

Some communities also have alcohol and drug workers based in community-controlled health organizations, whose role is to support people and their families in a culturally informed way.

Help and homelessness#

If a family member needs alcohol and drug help and is experiencing homelessness, this can be taken into account when they are assessed for treatment. Supported accommodation can be provided for people who have been through a withdrawal or rehabilitation program but need ongoing support.

Key points#

• A family member’s substance use can affect everyone, and it is ok to feel worried, angry or scared.
• All families cope differently, and there is no single right way to respond.
• Professionals, helplines, counselors and family courses can all help.
• Children affected by a parent’s addiction can talk to a trusted adult.
• Remember to look after your own health and wellbeing too.

Where to get help#