Illegal drug use is on the rise among certain age groups in the United States, according to the 2009 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Significant increases in use were found among teens and adults ages 50 to 54. Illicit drugs can have consequences for users that affect every aspect of their lives. Perhaps one of the most devastating effects of drug abuse is the strain it puts on families. Several organizations offer support to the loved ones of addicts.
Al-Anon and Alateen
Al-Anon is one of the more well-known support services for family members of alcoholics. It provides a way for participants to connect and discuss their experiences through regular local meetings. The Al-Anon philosophy focuses on alcoholism as a family illness. Those joining in the support groups are encouraged to complete the same 12-step program that addicts do in Alcoholics Anonymous. The organization also offers the Alateen program to provide support to teens affected by a relative's alcoholism. Al-Anon and Alateen meetings are free and services are maintained through voluntary donations.
Nar-Anon
Nar-Anon is similar to Al-Anon because it also encourages participants to go through their own 12-step process. Nar-Anon is for anyone affected by an addict's abuse of narcotics, such as heroin. The Nar-Anon Family Group is specifically for family members and others who are close to an addict. Group support is offered through regular meetings held in hospitals, treatment centers, churches and other community centers. Meetings are free to attend; donations are used to cover the costs of the program. Nar-Anon also offers special events and conventions throughout the nation during the year.
Betty Ford Center Family Program
California's Betty Ford Center is one of the most well-known drug treatment establishments in the world. Former First Lady Betty Ford and Leonard Firestone founded the center in 1982. The on-site family program is designed for loved ones and friends ages 13 and older. The cost of the program is covered for one individual who has a relative in treatment at the center; however, families can attend even if they have no one receiving care at the facility. The program lasts five days and educates family members about addiction.
Adult Children of Alcoholics
The Adult Children of Alcoholics program also follows the 12-step philosophy and provides support for adults who grew up in homes with alcoholics. It also offers support for adults who lived in other types of dysfunctional home environments. Meetings are geared toward sharing experiences and gaining clarity on how growing up with an alcoholic affected who they have become as adults. Participating in the ACA program is free, but donations are requested at meetings. The organization's website also offers information about special events held around the nation.
References
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Applied Studies: Results From the 2009 National Survey on Drug Use and Health
- Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters: Is Al-Anon for You?
- Nar-Anon Family Groups Headquarters: About Nar-Anon
- Betty Ford Center: From Our CEO
- Betty Ford Center: Family Program Questions
- Adult Children of Alcoholics World Service Organization
