SUPPORT FOR FAMILY & FRIENDS
If you care about someone who is struggling with addiction ...
... it can be tough. You may feel helpless, scared, confused, and desperately want them to seek treatment. But you may also need support.
When a loved one is struggling with alcohol dependence, alcohol use disorder or alcohol addiction, there are symptoms you might notice.
Do any of these sound familiar?
They are drinking more than was originally intended
They are trying to stop using or cut back on using alcohol, but not being able to do so
They continue to drink despite being aware of the physical or emotional problems associated
They're experiencing cravings to drink / drink more
There is interpersonal conflict due to the person’s drinking
Their alcohol misuse results in them not fulfilling their responsibilities at work, school, or home
They regularly use alcohol in high-risk situations
They spend a lot of time seeking out alcohol, parties and heavy drinking environments
They will give up things that were once important to them, in exchange for alcohol
They have developed a tolerance to a substance
They need more alcohol to keep getting the same effects from it
If they stop drinking, they experience physical symptoms of withdrawal
If yes, then it's probably time to seek some support ... for yourself.
We know how difficult it can be and what a difference support can make. And while Sober in the Country isn’t a support organisation, we can direct you to our peers in the Alcohol and Drug space. We recommend many credible, accredited, quality Australian organisations who are set up to provide resources and information, practical support and counselling for the loved ones of a person affected by alcohol harm.
These organisations can help you with practical strategies for what to do (and what not to do). Because it's essential for your wellbeing that you get help, too.
They will support you to manage challenging behaviours from your loved one and help keep you safe and improve your self care while you attempt to get support in place also for your loved one (if possible).
In time, at Sober in the Country, we plan to create a peer online support Bush Tribe for Family & Friends, too. We know from experience how valuable it can be to have a community of people who understand and support you.
Some key national Australian organisations we can recommend that are set up to help guide family and friends through the process of loving someone in addiction:
24/7 SUPPORT
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