Support for Families & Loved Ones
Substance use doesn't only affect the person going through it. It affects the people who love them, too. If someone in your life is struggling or working through recovery, this page is here to help you find support, understanding, and a few practical tools of your own.
Al-Anon: You Don't Have to Do This Alone
Al-Anon Family Groups offer free peer support for anyone affected by someone else's drinking or drug use, in meetings held both in person and online across the Houston area and worldwide. Visit al-anon.org to search for a meeting near you, or call 1-888-4AL-ANON (1-888-425-2666) for help getting started.
What Is Enabling?
Enabling means protecting a loved one from the natural consequences of their substance use, often out of love or fear, but it can unintentionally allow the behavior to continue. A few common examples: making excuses for them at work, with family, or in court; giving money that ends up supporting the substance use; covering for missed responsibilities or cleaning up after a crisis; avoiding a hard conversation to keep the peace.
Supporting Your Loved One While Protecting Your Own Well-Being
You can care deeply about someone and still set limits. A few ways to hold both: set boundaries and follow through on them consistently; encourage their treatment and recovery, but let it be their responsibility, not yours; take care of your own health, routines, and relationships; speak calmly and stick to facts, not blame, during hard moments.
Take Care of Yourself, Too
Supporting someone through substance use or recovery can be exhausting and isolating. You deserve support as well, whether that is a counselor, a support group like Al-Anon, or simply someone to talk to. Taking care of yourself is not selfish; it is part of how you stay steady for the people you love.
Talk to Our Team
Discovery's clinical team includes Sherry Gould, LPC, LCDC, a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with clients on trauma and related concerns. If you are looking for counseling support for yourself or guidance on how to help a loved one, reach out and we will help connect you with the right resource.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Contact Discovery at 832.602.6065 or admin@discoverydwi.com, and we'll help you find the resource that fits your situation.