If your family is navigating a loved one’s substance use or recovery from addiction, you are not alone. The Arbor hosts a free support group in Austin, Texas, designed to support families affected by addiction and related behavioral problems. Our group brings together family members, caregivers, friends, and relatives to share experiences, gain tools, and find hope alongside others in the community.

Purpose of the support group

In our support group, families share experiences, reduce isolation, and find guidance. We aim to:

• Provide emotional support for families dealing with addiction’s impact on daily lives and health
• Create a safe, welcoming space for honest conversation and feelings
• Help family members understand that the pain of substance use disorder is shared by many others, and that recovery is a path the entire family can walk

We invite both family members and friends of those with a substance use disorder to join our group. This peer-led, professionally facilitated group offers a safe space to connect with people who understand the challenges you face. Our online meetings are held on Tuesdays, 6:00 pm CDT on Zoom.

Benefits of attending family support meetings

Families struggling with a child, parent, partner, or friend who is battling addiction to drugs or alcohol often carry heavy stress. Attending these meetings can help you:

• Learn from families dealing with similar substance use challenges
• Reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness
• Gain hope, tools, coping strategies, and tips for setting healthy boundaries
• Build a supportive community that fosters healing, wel-being, and long term recovery
• Discover resources and programs that complement professional treatment services

Support meeting basics

What to expect:

• Virtual format: Our online meetings increase accessibility for families across Austin and Georgetown.
• Professional facilitation: The Arbor’s trained staff members guide the group and keep it a safe space for all.
• Open to all: We mean “family” inclusively. Immediate family members, other relatives, and friends are welcome, regardless of background, age, or prior experience with support groups.
• Coordination and quality: Our executive director oversees program quality so the group remains supportive and consistent.
• Confidentiality: We honor privacy, and the group maintains respect, confidentiality, and compassion at all times.

3 unwritten rules of families impacted by addiction

Families often fall into patterns described as “do not talk,” “do not trust,” and “do not feel.” Our group helps families understand these patterns, share experiences, and practice healthier communication so recovery can lead the way forward.

4 C’s of addiction

Al‑Anon Family Groups teach families the three C’s: you did not Cause it, you cannot Control it, and you cannot Cure it. Many programs add a fourth C: take Care of yourself by setting boundaries, getting support, and using healthy coping tools. This framework helps family members understand their role and focus on their own health.

5 ways to deal with substance use disorders in the family

What you can do:

• Get family support: Join in-person or online support groups; try a mutual support program such as Al‑Anon.
• Learn about substance use disorder: Education reduces stigma and helps you understand risks, overdose warning signs, and recovery resources.
• Set boundaries: Clear limits protect your safety and mental health.
• Seek professional treatment: Encourage your loved one to explore treatment, including assessment, inpatient or outpatient programs, and ongoing services.
• Care for yourself: Maintain routines, healthy sleep, and medical care, and consider professional counseling for added support.

To learn more about treatment options for a loved one, check out our substance abuse treatment programs.

For data on overdose trends that affect families and youth nationwide, see NIDA overdose death rates.

Community support in Austin and Georgetown

Substance use disorder and alcohol problems affect many families in Central Texas. Support groups give families, friends, and caregivers a foundation for change. By learning about disorders and treatment, families can better understand a loved one’s substance use disorder and encourage steps toward recovery. When a person seeks help, families are more prepared to guide, connect to services, and navigate programs.

The Arbor’s team can connect you to more information and appropriate treatment services when you are ready. We welcome you to take the first step and join our community on Tuesday evenings.