If you or someone you know is in crisis right now: call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). For a possible overdose or any medical emergency, call 911. For help finding treatment, the SAMHSA National Helpline is free and open 24/7 at 1-800-662-4357.
The short answer
Family support groups give people with a loved one in addiction a place to share, learn and feel less alone. Al-Anon is for families affected by someone’s drinking, Nar-Anon for families affected by drug use, and SMART Recovery Family & Friends offers a skills-based, secular option. All are free or low-cost, and you can attend even if your loved one is not in treatment.
Why support matters for families
Addiction affects the whole family: stress, fear, money worries and strained relationships. Support groups can:
- Reduce isolation and shame
- Teach practical coping and communication skills
- Help you set boundaries
- Support your own health, even if your loved one does not change
The main options
| Group | Focus | Approach | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Al-Anon / Alateen | Families and friends of people with alcohol problems; Alateen is for teens | 12-step, peer support | In-person and online meetings |
| Nar-Anon | Families and friends of people with drug problems | 12-step, peer support | In-person and online meetings |
| SMART Recovery Family & Friends | Families and friends of people with any addiction | Skills-based, secular, drawing on CRAFT | Online and in-person meetings |
| Families Anonymous | Families concerned about substance use or related behaviors | 12-step, peer support | In-person and online |
| Learn to Cope | Families affected by opioid and other drug use | Peer support and education | In-person and online |
Availability varies by location. Search each organization’s website for meetings.
Al-Anon and Alateen
Al-Anon groups use the 12 steps and focus on your own wellbeing, not on controlling the other person. Members share experiences, and meetings are anonymous. Alateen is for teens and young people affected by someone else’s drinking.
May suit you if: you like peer fellowship, a spiritual or reflective approach and a long-standing community.
Nar-Anon
Similar to Al-Anon, but for families dealing with drug addiction. Meetings are peer-led, with a focus on support and self-care.
SMART Recovery Family & Friends
This program uses practical tools drawn from science-based methods, including CRAFT, to help families communicate, motivate loved ones and care for themselves. It is secular and has no steps or labels.
May suit you if: you prefer a skills-based, non-religious approach.
How to choose
- Think about the approach. 12-step fellowship or skills-based?
- Try more than one meeting, and more than one group. Atmosphere varies.
- Consider format: in-person, online or phone.
- Notice how you feel. A good group feels supportive and not judging.
(See [AA vs SMART Recovery vs Other Mutual-Help Groups: Which Fits You?].)
What to expect at a meeting
- Anonymity. First names only, and what is shared stays in the group.
- No pressure to speak. You can listen.
- A mix of experiences, parents, spouses, siblings and friends.
- No fees required, though groups may pass a basket for voluntary donations.
- No professionals. Groups are peer-led, not therapy. They do not replace professional help.
Beyond groups
- Family therapy or counseling can help you and your loved one. (See [Evidence-Based Therapies in Addiction Treatment: CBT, DBT and Contingency Management].)
- CRAFT-based programs teach skills for talking with your loved one. (See [How to Talk to a Loved One About Addiction Without Pushing Them Away].)
- Family programs at treatment centers. Ask whether the program offers family sessions.
- A personal therapist, especially if you feel overwhelmed, depressed or anxious.
If you are struggling
Seek help if you feel hopeless, cannot function or have thoughts of harming yourself. Call or text 988. Caring for yourself is not selfish.
Tips for getting the most from a group
- Go regularly, even when you feel better.
- Take what helps and leave the rest.
- Use the group for support, and use professionals for medical or legal questions.
- Keep your own boundaries and routines. (See [Enabling vs Supporting: Setting Healthy Boundaries].)
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Al-Anon and Nar-Anon?
Al-Anon is for families of people with alcohol problems. Nar-Anon is for families of people with drug problems.
Do I need my loved one to be in treatment to attend?
No. These groups are for your own support.
Is SMART Recovery Family & Friends religious?
No. It is secular and skills-based.
Are family support groups free?
Usually free or by voluntary donation.
Are there groups for teens?
Yes. Alateen supports teens affected by someone’s drinking.
Can I join online?
Yes. Many groups offer online and phone meetings.
Sources
- Al-Anon Family Groups. al-anon.org
- Nar-Anon Family Groups. nar-anon.org
- SMART Recovery. Family & Friends. smartrecovery.org
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Support groups do not replace professional care.