As Alcohol Awareness Week begins on 7th July, we want to shine a light on a group whose struggles are often invisible: the friends and family members caring for someone with a drug or alcohol problem.
When someone is misusing alcohol or drugs, the emotional and practical toll on those around them can be overwhelming. At Carers Support West Sussex, we recognise that behind every person experiencing addiction, there is often a carer quietly holding everything together.
“It was a real shock… I felt a real sense of personal failure.”
These are the words of one carer who recently attended our drug and alcohol carer support group. Like many, they came to us at a point of crisis, grappling with the news that their adult child had been living with addiction.
But they were not alone. In their own words:
“The group allowed me to open up to a complete group of strangers, as I knew that everyone there was either in a similar situation or had been before. The sense of understanding and warmth from everyone was very reassuring to me.”
For this carer, the group offered something vital: a safe, non-judgmental space to talk, to feel heard, and to receive support from others who truly understood.
A hidden cost of addiction
Carers of those struggling with alcohol misuse often carry deep feelings of guilt, stigma of being judged, helplessness, and isolation. Many describe a profound sense of failure, even though they are doing all they can to help. That’s why our drug and alcohol carer groups exist, to support the carers.
Whether you’re dealing with the early stages of discovery or navigating years of ups and downs, our service offers:
- Monthly support groups in several West Sussex locations
- A chance to speak freely with others who understand
- Signposting to relevant treatment or recovery services
“The strength and fortitude of those present was quite inspiring at times.”
Addiction affects every family differently, and recovery is rarely a straight line. For this carer, their son’s drug use has “virtually resolved,” though alcohol and other challenges remain. Yet even small steps forward can bring hope and the knowledge that things can, and do, improve.
The carer closed their message to us with these words of gratitude:
“Thank you all so much for the warm welcome and all the support you gave us over many meetings.”
Join us this Alcohol awareness week
If someone in your life is drinking too much, and it’s affecting your wellbeing, please know this: you are not alone. Our team is here to listen, guide, and stand beside you.
Learn more about our Drug and Alcohol support services here.
