When a person is struggling with a drug problem, it can affect those around them — including parents, partners, children, siblings and friends. It’s not uncommon for loved ones to experience feelings of guilt, believing they may have contributed to the addiction or feeling distressed that they haven’t been able to help.

We understand that this can be a stressful and emotional time for everyone involved. That’s why we’ve created a dedicated Relatives and Carers section within our Wellbeing Portal. This section is designed to help you better understand the issues related to drug use and its impact on your loved one — and on you.

Through this resource, we aim to provide the information, guidance and support you need. Our hope is that it will help you care for your loved one more effectively, while also looking after your own wellbeing.

Caring for someone with a drug addiction is an incredibly difficult and emotional experience. Drug use doesn’t only affect the individual — it can also create significant challenges for their family, friends and carers.

The impact of drug misuse often extends far beyond the person using substances. It can cause emotional strain, disrupt relationships and lead to practical and financial difficulties for those who care about them. The stigma and shame surrounding addiction can make it even harder for families and carers to seek help, leading many to suffer in silence. This isolation can result in increased stress, anxiety, depression and other health concerns.

Learning that someone you love is using drugs can stir up a range of emotions — including anger, worry, confusion and helplessness. These feelings are valid and you are not alone.

Support is available to help you understand what your loved one is going through and importantly, to take care of your own wellbeing too.

Suggesting that a relative or friend reduce their drug use may not always be well received, especially if they do not recognise or accept that there is a problem. Similarly, recommending professional help might be met with resistance.

The first major challenge is helping them acknowledge the issue. This step can be difficult but is often essential to beginning their recovery journey.  To support this, we have provided valuable advice and information within the Patient section of our Wellbeing Portal. This resource can be suggested as a starting point for the person you are caring for to explore and understand their situation at their own pace.  This might encourage them to take initial steps towards abstinence, such as contacting a specialist service for support. In some cases, you may need to advocate on their behalf. However, it’s important to seek their consent before you contact any services on their behalf.

Our goal is to assist both you and your loved one by providing the right guidance, advice and support during this potentially stressful time. To help with this, we have included Local Drug Service contact details and Carer support information in the Getting More Help section of the Wellbeing Portal.