According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 adults live with a mental illness and fewer than half receive the treatment they require. Living with a mental health condition and not receiving treatment can take a toll on family members and loved ones.
Thankfully, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) states there are support groups and local programs available for family members of those struggling with drug abuse or mental health issues.
Providing caregiver support can be stressful, requiring you to focus on your own mental health as well. If you have a family member who is diagnosed with a mental health or substance use disorder, they may take part in recovery options or they may not.
Regardless of whether your loved one receives treatment, consider joining a family support group to share your experience as a caregiver, gaining insight regarding addiction and mental health along the way.
Mental Health Family Support Groups
Mental health family support groups can take place in local, in-person settings as well as online.
NAMI Family Support Group
A NAMI Family Support Group is a peer support group for adults with a loved one experiencing mental health issues. The NAMI support group focuses on a structured model, allowing group members to share similar experiences.
A NAMI Family Support Group offers several benefits such as:
- ensured confidentiality
- free for participants
- led by family members of people with mental health problems
- designed for adults of those struggling with mental health conditions
- 60-90 minute sessions which can take place weekly, monthly, or at designated times depending on the location
NAMI Connection
NAMI offers a wide-range of suicide prevention resources, one of which includes the NAMI Connection. This support group is for those suffering from mental health issues.
Virtual options are available including webinars and podcasts. Support sessions can take place online as well via Zoom.
NAMI Connection offers options for those across the country and the program is available in Spanish.
Addiction Family Support Groups
Addiction is a chronic disease that affects the whole family. While loving someone with addiction can be difficult, there are support groups for family members that can help.
12-Step Programs
Al-Anon is a type of 12-step program which can assist in learning coping skills for dealing with your loved one. You can also gain a sense of community when you speak to others who share similar experiences.
Similar to AA, Al-Anon is built on the foundation of sharing experiences with one another in hopes of learning ways to better understand your loved one.
Parent Support Groups
Parent support groups are available as well. If your adolescent or young adult struggles with drug abuse, ask your doctor for a referral to a resource center or recommended support group.
There is no judgment in support groups. They are confidential and allow you to speak of your experiences as a caregiver for your child.
With parent support groups, you can find support among other concerned parents. Together, you can learn more about addiction and ways to cope.
If you or a loved one suffer from substance abuse, contact Northeast Addictions Treatment Center. At our rehab facility, we offer numerous treatment options, wellness programs, and healthcare services for you to consider.
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- The Impact of Parental Substance Abuse on Children
Sources:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness – Family Members and Caregivers
- National Alliance on Mental Illness – NAMI Family Support Group
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – For Friends and Family Members