Where to get support
When you are worried about someone’s alcohol or drugs misuse, it can be easy to put all your energy into supporting them, and forget about your own needs. It’s important to recognise that by looking after yourself, you will be in a better position to offer support to someone else.
One of the most important things you can do to look after yourself is to talk to people you trust. This could be other family members, friends, or someone from a support group.
Some people struggle to talk about their loved one’s drug or alcohol problems with people they know, so a support group provides an opportunity to meet others who are in similar situations and understand what you’re going through.
| Adfam | 020 7553 7640 www.adfam.org.uk |
Supporting families affected by drugs and alcohol. Provides publications for families (free for family members and friends) and details of local family support groups. Adfam works with family members affected by someone else’s drug or alcohol use. |
| Al-Anon Family Groups UK and Eire | 020 7403 0888www.al-anonuk.org.uk | Helpline and groups providing support for families and friends of problem drinkers, whether the person is still drinking or not |
| Drugfam | 0300 888 3853 | A range of support for families affected by addiction including a helpline and specialist bereavement support. |
| Families Anonymous | 0845 120 0660 www.al-anonuk.org.uk |
Telephone and other support services for families and friends of drug users. 50 groups throughout the UK offering help and support to members based on the 12 step programme. |
| Frank | 0300 123 6600 www.talktofrank.com |
Helpline for anyone concerned about drug or solvent misuse. Advice and information for drug misusers, their families, friends, carers. (Formerly known as the National Drugs Helpline). |
| National Association for Children of Alcoholics | 0800 358 3456 www.nacoa.org.uk |
Helpline offering information, advice and support to children of alcoholics and people concerned about their welfare. |
| Release | 020 7324 2989 www.release.org.uk |
Helpline and support for drug users, families, friends. Advice on drug related subjects including health, welfare and legal issues. Referrals to lawyers and local drug services. |
| Re-Solv Enquiries | 01785 810762 www.re-solv.org |
Helpline providing information and support for people concerned about solvent or volatile substance abuse problems. |
| SupportLine Telephone Helpline | 01708 765200 Email: info@supportline.org.uk |
Provides emotional support and keeps details of local agencies providing help and support for all issues relating to drugs and alcohol. |
| The BEAD Project | www.beadproject.org.uk Email: info@beadproject.org.uk | Provides information and support for anyone bereaved through drug or alcohol use. |
