For Families
You don't have to face this alone either.
Addiction affects the whole family. If someone you love is struggling, there is support available for you — not just for them.
You Are Not Alone
What you're feeling makes complete sense.
Living with or loving someone who is addicted to drugs is one of the most painful and confusing experiences a person can go through. The chaos, the broken promises, the fear — it takes a real toll.
Many families feel they have to manage everything alone, or that asking for help is a betrayal of their loved one. Neither is true. Reaching out for support is one of the most important things you can do — for yourself and for them.
You may be feeling:
All of these feelings are valid. And all of them are shared by families across the world who are in the same situation.
Important to Understand
Things that can help — and things that can hurt.
You cannot force someone into recovery — it has to be their choice
Covering up or making excuses for addictive behaviour can delay recovery
Taking care of yourself is not selfish — it is necessary
You are not responsible for your loved one's addiction or their recovery
Setting boundaries is an act of love, not punishment
Seeking support for yourself helps everyone in the family
"Addiction is a family disease. One person may use, but the whole family suffers."
Support for You
Where families can turn.
These organisations exist specifically to support the people who love someone struggling with addiction.
Families Anonymous
A UK-based fellowship for families and friends affected by a loved one's addiction. Meetings are free, confidential, and follow a 12-step programme.
Visit Families AnonymousAdfam
Adfam is a national UK charity working with and for families affected by drugs and alcohol. They provide information, support, and a network of local groups.
Visit AdfamNar-Anon Family Groups
A worldwide fellowship for families and friends of addicts. Meetings offer a safe space to share experience, strength, and hope with others who understand.
Visit Nar-AnonIntroductory Guide to NA
A free PDF guide from NA World Services explaining what NA is, how it works, and what to expect — helpful reading for anyone new to the fellowship.
Download Guide (PDF)Am I an Addict?
A self-assessment resource from UK NA to help someone understand whether addiction may be affecting their life — useful to share with a loved one.
Read MoreFamilies at NA Meetings
Many NA meetings are open to family members and friends. Attending an open meeting can help you understand what your loved one is going through.
Find an Open MeetingSelf-Care
Looking after yourself matters.
You cannot pour from an empty cup. Supporting a loved one through addiction is a long journey — your wellbeing matters too.
Talk to someone
Whether a friend, a counsellor, or a Nar-Anon group — sharing your experience reduces isolation and helps you think more clearly.
Attend a support group
Nar-Anon and Al-Anon meetings are free, confidential, and run by people who truly understand what you are going through.
Set limits you can keep
Boundaries are not ultimatums. They are clear statements about what you will and will not accept — and they protect you both.
Don't neglect your own life
Your health, relationships, and wellbeing matter. Recovery is a long road — you need to be well enough to walk it alongside your loved one.
Reach out. For them — and for you.
The NA UK helpline is available to families too. If you're not sure where to start, a single phone call can open the door to the right support.