September is Recovery Awareness Month, a time to highlight awareness around addiction and recovery. For many families, learning how to support a loved one struggling with an addiction can affect the family dynamic in different ways. If you have a loved one struggling with drug or alcohol misuse, you may feel challenged with how to support them while still caring for yourself.
Addiction is sometimes referred to as a family disease. One reason is that addiction tends to run in families, with a strong genetic predisposition to the disease. Another reason addiction is an illness that impacts everyone. If you suspect a family member is struggling with an addiction, there are ways to help.
Additional Resources
- Starting the Conversation: “Supporting a Loved One” SAMHSA How-To Guide
- SAMHSA Family Support Infographic Guide
- Al-Anon: Support program for friends and families of individuals with alcohol problems.
- Nar-Anon Mutual support group meetings for families affected by a drug problem.
- Partnership for Drug-Free Kids: Nonprofit organization that aims to help families struggling with their son or daughter's substance use.