Why Families Need Support Too (Part 2/5)

Why Families Need Support Too (Part 2/5)

How do people cope with the challenges of staying sober when a loved one is using alcohol or drugs? This episode of *Life with Alcohol and Drugs* turns the spotlight firmly onto families and the heavy load they carry. Host Robbie Coffey chats with Daryl Mcleister, who breaks down what “family” really means in this context. It’s not just about blood relatives.

As Daryl puts it, “love makes you family” – whether that’s friends, colleagues, neighbours or a “found family” who care for each other. From there, the conversation digs into the emotional fallout for those around someone who uses alcohol or drugs. Families describe “significant stress and some significant strain”, sleepless nights, chronic pain and a constant sense of worry. Many are dealing with depression, anxiety and physical health issues, all while trying to support someone else.

Stigma makes it even harder, leaving people feeling they “can’t speak to people openly” and pushing them into years of silence and isolation. Daryl highlights how guilt, shame and self-blame creep in, summed up by the heartbreaking phrase: “I can’t do right for doing wrong.” Confusing messages about “enabling” and fear about what contacting services might mean keep many families stuck and unsure what to do.

Instead of quick fixes or judgment, Daryl sets out three practical pillars of support: timely one-to-one help from someone who understands, clear and honest information about treatment options, medication and harm reduction, and the power of peer support. Hearing someone else say, “I’m really struggling with this” can shift a family member from feeling utterly alone to realising others truly get it.

If you care about someone’s alcohol or drug use and feel like you’re running on empty, this conversation might help you feel seen and offer a few ideas for what to ask for next.