The biggest part of my healing came from developing my understanding of substance abuse, learning about the resources available for my loved ones and how it works, understanding how and why relapses happen and finding ‘my’ community of people who have walked this path. There is a lot of information out there – here are some quick links that might help you begin your journey.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
This is still a valuable site even if you yourself are not struggling with substance abuse. You can learn more about what your loved one is working through, you can join any ‘open’ AA meetings in your area or help set up a meeting for your loved one
A group of people who are concerned about their loved one with a drinking problem. Al-Ateen is geared towards teenager (I WISH I knew about this when I was a teenager!!). Can filter by location, type of meeting, etc. Works through the 12 step program alongside AA.
Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART)
An alternative method to AA. Instead of ‘powerless’ mentality, it educates the person suffering from a SUD to be able to find internal power over their addiction.
My therapist specialized in this field. She runs open groups on college campuses and meets individually with adults. I strongly recommend joining a group or trying to locate a therapist with ACA familiarity.
Loving an Addict 