Support is available for Young People…
We understand that addiction doesn’t just affect the individual; it impacts families, friends and communities too.
If you are aged under 25 and using drugs or alcohol and are in need of support, contact EYPDAS (Essex Young People’s Drug and Alcohol Service), which supports young people affected by drug and alcohol use.
The service provides a range of online resources for a number of issues young people may be experiencing and offers one-to-one, group, telephone, and virtual support; drug rehabilitation requirement (DRR) interventions; and NEET support (for those not in education, employment, or training).
Advice for family and carers…
Be there for them..
Learning that a loved one has an issue with drink or drugs is very difficult for all of those involved. The care, compassion and support that you show can make a huge difference, giving them the confidence and reason to reach the stages of recovery.
Take care of yourself…
Feeling angry, fearful, hopeless or sad are just some of the understandable emotions that you may be going through yourself. Whilst your loved one is struggling and will need your support, it is most important that you look after your own health and needs first. It may well be that you are finding this situation very difficult to deal with. If this is the case then considering getting your own support through psychotherapy/counselling will be of benefit. If you notice your health deteriorating, then speak to your doctor.
Empower them with choice…
If you have found out that someone you know has an issue with drink or drugs, please avoid trying to control the situation. Open Road works with people across Essex and Medway to guide people on their journey to recovery, however, we can only work with people who want to be helped.
If you have someone in mind, who states that they do not want to change, then having a calm and honest conversation with them about how it is affecting everyone is your starting point. Learn about each other’s experiences, fears and desired outcomes before guiding them towards a service such as Open Road. Most importantly, emphasise that you are there to support them, and entering into our service has to be their choice.
There are a number of other support agencies available to you across the UK if the person you are supporting does not wish to engage in our service:
Adfam – https://www.adfam.org.uk/ – Information and support for families and friends of drug alcohol users, including meetings.
Al Anon – https://www.al-anonuk.org.uk/ – Support for anyone who has been affected by someone else’s drinking.
Famanon – https://famanon.co.uk/ – Families anonymous, providing support forums and meetings across the UK to anyone affected by someone elses use of drugs or associated behavioural problems.
UK Smart Recovery family and friends – https://www.smartrecovery.org.uk/family-friends/ – an evidence-based approach to support individuals with a loved one struggling with addiction. This organisation offers online meetings.
