Choose a calm moment
When they are sober and you both have time.
Photograph to come
XCELL recovery worker talking with a father and daughter in a calm family room
For Families and Friends
Support for Families and Loved Ones
When someone you love is struggling with alcohol or drugs, it affects the whole family. You may feel worried, frustrated, exhausted or unsure what to do next. All of those feelings are normal, and you do not have to face this alone.
- You Are Not Alone
- Practical Guidance
- Confidential
If you need help right now: If you or someone else is in immediate danger, has taken an overdose or needs urgent medical help, call 999 or go to A&E. For urgent mental health support, call NHS 111. You can also call Samaritans free on 116 123, day or night, or FRANK on 0300 123 6600 for confidential drugs advice. Our enquiry forms are not monitored as an emergency service.
Starting the Conversation
Talking to someone about their drinking or drug use can feel daunting. These tips can help:
Speak from the heart
Say "I am worried about you" rather than "You always".
Listen
Give them space to talk, even if it is hard to hear.
Avoid labels and blame
Focus on how you feel and what you have noticed.
Offer help, not ultimatums
Let them know support is available when they are ready.
Be patient
It may take several conversations.
Things You Could Say
I love you, and I am worried about you.
I have noticed you seem to be finding things hard lately.
I am here when you want to talk.
Would you be willing to speak to someone about it?
Photograph to come
Brother and sister reuniting in the garden during a family visit at the XCELL recovery service
Not Sure What to Do Next? Talk to Us
Being Part of Their Recovery
With your loved one's consent, families can be involved in their recovery through:
- Regular updates on how things are going
- Planned contact and visits
- Planning together for life after rehab
What We Can and Cannot Share
We need your loved one's consent before sharing information about their care. We know this can feel frustrating, but it protects their trust in us. You can always share your worries and information with us, and we will listen.
Looking After Yourself
Supporting someone through addiction can take a heavy toll. Please remember to:
- Get enough rest, food and time for yourself
- Talk to people you trust about how you feel
- Set boundaries that protect your wellbeing
- Seek support for yourself, even if your loved one is not ready
Photograph to come
Family members sharing support in a group led by an XCELL recovery worker
Keeping Everyone Safe
If someone you love uses opioids, such as heroin or strong painkillers, ask your local drug and alcohol service or pharmacy about naloxone, a medicine that can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose while you wait for an ambulance. In an emergency, always call 999.
If you or your children are ever at risk of harm at home, call 999 in an emergency or contact your local council's safeguarding team.
More Support for Families
These national organisations offer free, confidential support:
- Adfam
Support for families affected by drugs and alcohol
- Al-Anon
Support groups for people affected by someone else's drinking
- NACOA
Support for children of parents who drink
- FRANK
Confidential drugs advice for anyone, including families
- Samaritans
Someone to talk to, any time, on 116 123
Talk to Our Team
Worried about someone? Leave a safe number and a good time, and a member of our team will call you. We will listen and talk through the options, and we will never contact your loved one without their consent.
Prefer to talk now? Call 01204 773228
Questions Families Ask
Yes. You can talk to us, and we will check that your loved one agrees before going further.
You Do Not Have to Carry This Alone
Whenever you are ready, we are here to talk.
Related services
Assessment and Admissions
What happens from first enquiry to an admission date.
Our Residence
The environment, daily life, visiting and what to bring.
Aftercare and Recovery Support
Relapse prevention and life after rehab.