Support for friends, whānau, and loved ones of people who use drugs. This can include support groups, helplines, online information and other forums.
How could it be helpful?
Often when we are supporting other people, it can be easy to forget that we need our own support as well.
Whānau/Family support gives you a space to talk about what is going on for yourself and meet other people who are going through similar experiences. It can also help you to provide support while setting your own boundaries.
How to access?
There’s information online that can help you talk to your loved ones about their drug use. You can get guidance on how to approach the conversation, make sure you are still looking after yourself and support them moving forward on this page: How to support people who use drugs.
There are also services out there who can support you:
Call Family Drug Support on 0800 337 877 to talk about what you are going through. They provide one to one counselling for family/whānau members using the 5-Step Method. They are available for anyone in New Zealand. You can refer yourself via the Family Drug Support website. Online support is also available via the Supportline 9 am to 10 pm, 7 days a week.
Call Brave Hearts on 0508 272 834 for support. This is peer led lived experience. You will be speaking with someone who knows what it is like. They have online and in person support groups and offer individual family meetings in person, on the phone or online. You can also visit the Brave Hearts website to see stories from people in similar situations.
Call the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797 or text them at 8681 to talk with them and find out what support is available. They are a good place to start if you want to know what support is available in your area. The helpline has experienced professionals who provide a confidential and free service to anyone affected by drugs.
Call MethHelp on 0800 638 443 for free, confidential nationwide phone counselling if a friend or whānau member is using meth, and you need support. You can refer yourself or someone you know via their website.
Whare Tukutuku has created this guide for whānau that are concerned about a family member's use of drugs.
Kina Trust has information and advice for the families of people who use drugs and alcohol and are experiencing problems because of it. You can read about or watch videos of the experiences of others who are in a similar situation to you.
For more information on what support may be available near you, see Health Point.
It can also be helpful to check in with people who care about you. Just spending time with other people can help, it doesn’t have to be a deep conversation.