Family Mental Health Support from 12 Step & Other Substance Disorder Programs
When an adolescent, teenager, or young adult is struggling with their mental health, other family members may need support, too. And as mentioned in Finding Family Mental Health Support when a Youth is Struggling, help is available from a range of organizations.
A more specific type of family help may be needed, however, when youths are following 12 step or other substance use disorder programs. Organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous and other groups take particular approaches to treatment, and many parents and caregivers benefit from resources that are structured along similar lines.
Below is Menderist’s overview of family/caregiver help from leading groups whose programs are based on 12 step or other approaches to substance use disorder. Our choices were based on sources highlighted by the Recovery Research Institute (as listed under Supportive Measures for Family Members – Peer Support), a leading organization focusing on addiction treatment and recovery.
Note: we are presenting this information separately from our Canadian- and American-focused articles, since many resources from 12-step and other substance use disorder programs apply to citizens of both countries. However, other helpful materials – such as podcasts, videos, and articles – are outlined in the articles about Canadian and American organizations.
Resources for families of those in 12-step programs
Al-Anon
Children or adults who are struggling with the alcohol use disorder of a family member, and following a 12-step program such as Alcoholics Anonymous, may be interested in the support offered by Al-Anon, which is outlined at the website.
Alateen: an organization for teenagers affected by the alcohol use disorder of someone else, such as a parent or sibling who is following a 12-step program. See the website to learn about the range of programs offered.
Nar-Anon
Nar-Anon is a 12-Step Program, designed for family and caregivers of people who are getting help from Narcotics Anonymous. Various types of support are available, explained at the organization’s website.
Narateen: is an organization from Nar-Anon, “formed to provide support to teenage family members and friends of addicts.” See the website for information about meetings and resources.
Alternatives to 12-step programs: family resources
Instead of 12-step programs, individuals struggling with addiction may opt for an alternative style of substance use disorder program. To learn about family and caregiver resources offered by these organizations, visit their websites as outlined below:
SMART Recovery Family & Friends
SMART Recovery is based on the method called: Community Reinforcement Approach & Family Training (CRAFT). The organization describes itself as “delivering inclusive, evidence-informed addiction recovery programs across the United States and Canada.”
A range of online and in-person meetings is available. Visit the website to find out about options, such as Family & Friends virtual meetings.
Podcasts and YouTube videos:
A podcast series from the organization includes such topics as how to handle compassion fatigue and the Family and Friends Program. (The podcast is also available via some podcast apps, such as Apple podcasts.)
SMART Recovery’s YouTube channel covers different topics; for example, one video is about help for Veterans.
Learn2Cope
Learn 2 Cope is another alternative to 12-step programs, and describes itself as “a peer-led support network that offers education, resources, and hope for family members and friends who have loved ones affected by substance use disorder.”
The organization offers support and education, including through online forums, such as one for grandparents raising grandchildren. There’s also a sibling group (called The Ripple Effect) for those whose sibling is dealing with a substance use disorder.
HELP DURING A CRISIS
Crisis lines provide immediate help to anyone – adults or youths – in serious distress:
988 is the number to call or text in Canada and the U.S. Those living in the U.S. can also chat via 988lifeline.org.
Canadian youth under 20 – in Canada, Kids Help Phone offers 24-hour, confidential help. Text 686868; or call 1-800-668-6868; or chat via the Kids Help website.
