Several online support groups for families of addicts are available. These online groups are especially beneficial for rural participants who cannot get to an in-person meeting. These groups can be accessed at any hour, and the content can be tailored to the needs of individual participants. Many of the online meetings are free, and participants can find one that best suits their needs. For more information, visit the websites of these groups. Listed below are the main benefits of participating in these online support groups.
Al-Anon
Families of addicts who are unable to attend in-person meetings may turn to Al-Anon online meetings as an alternative. There are many benefits to connecting with others in similar situations. Addiction tends to isolate those involved and can be embarrassing and difficult to discuss. However, hearing the experiences of other families can help give them strength to face the challenges of dealing with the addict’s dependency.
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Al-Anon online meetings are available to help families cope with the loss of a loved one. Al-Anon is a spiritual fellowship that does not follow any particular religion or philosophy. Families can benefit from attending the meetings because they can understand the 12-steps of recovery and better connect with their loved one. Addicts who drink often feel disconnected from others and learning to reconnect can help them realize that they are not alone in this struggle.
Nar-Anon
Nar-Anon is a program that helps the family of an addict or alcoholic begin the process of healing. The 12-step program helps the family build a strong foundation so the recovering loved one can focus on the next step in their recovery. Addicts and alcoholics often feel isolated from other people. The support and friendship of the family can help them feel connected and empowered.
In order to become a member of a Nar-Anon group, a family or friend must have a relative or a close friend who suffers from addiction. There are no dues or fees and the organization is entirely self-supporting. Local groups collect donations for local expenses. Donations are also used to support the World Service Office. There are numerous benefits to joining a Nar-Anon group.
Recovering Couples Anonymous
Recovering Couples Anonymous is a 12-Step fellowship with groups all over the United States and around the world. While it is not affiliated with Alcoholics Anonymous, its principles and tools have been adapted for use with alcoholics and their families. Online meetings for families are a growing community of motivated people dedicated to helping alcoholics and their families rekindle their relationship and begin the healing process.
Recovering Couples Anonymous is a great way to meet other family members. This non-profit organization provides education and peer support for family members and offers a moderated online support forum for those interested in connecting with others experiencing similar situations. Learn to Cope is another option for families. The organization provides resources and information to children of alcoholics. The site also offers age-appropriate guidance and support for children.
Learn to Cope
If you are a family member of an addict, you need support. Learn to Cope is a peer-led community that provides resources, education and peer support. There are weekly meetings for families and a listing of treatment facilities. If you live in Massachusetts, you can join one of their many in-person meeting groups. Learn to Cope is free and open to family members of people who have an opioid use disorder, as well as individuals in recovery.
You can learn to cope with online meetings by attending free, anonymous, and confidential online meetings for families of addicts. Some of these meetings are more accessible than others, including family and friends support groups and SMART Recovery. SMART Recovery, a global community of individuals in recovery, offers a self-empowering approach based on the latest science in the field. Families of addicts can also benefit from The Healing Place, which offers a series of publications and events for family members and friends.