Family members of those who are using or abusing drugs have their own battles to face. They can feel frustration, isolation, loneliness, and confusion. This is common for those who love someone that is using and/or addicted to drugs or alcohol. Families of users should practice self-care. There are many support services specific to the struggles of family or loved ones of drug users.
Families of users should try to identify areas where their own behavior is limiting their loved ones’ movement in to treatment, healing, and / or recovery. This, and practicing self-care, are two of the best paths to take when working with a loved one struggling with addiction.
Family Support Resources and Information:
Local Support Groups
Milwaukee County
United We C.A.N (Change Addiction Now) – Shorewood, WI
Nar-Anon – Find a Meeting – Oak Creek, Wauwatosa, Brown Deer, WI
Caring Connections: Support for Families with Addiction – West Allis, WI
Red-Oak Counseling – Oak Creek, WI
Waukesha County
Healing Corner, LLC – Brookfield, WI
Thunder & Rain – Waukesha, WI
Nar-Anon – Find a Meeting – Waukesha, WI
Red-Oak Counseling – Elm Grove, WI
General
Grief Recovery Resources
Grief Recovery After a Substance Passing (GRASP)
United We C.A.N. Red Balloon Group
Grief Share: Find a Group Near You
Mental Health America of Wisconsin – Milwaukee County Support Groups
NPR: When A Loved One Dies of Overdose, What Happens to the Family?
Tips for Self-Care
Addictions and Recovery.org: Help for Families with Addiction
Opioid Overdose Prevention Resources for the Milwaukee Community 