Supporting families through addiction
Find guidance for every stage of your loved one’s recovery – from preparing for rehab to offering support during and after treatment.
Watching a loved one battle addiction can bring a mix of emotions, from confusion and frustration, to sadness and fear. Many families feel helpless as they witness changes in their loved one’s behaviour, health and relationships, often unsure of how to offer support or where to turn for help.
It's important to remember that you're not alone in this, and support is available while your loved one receives treatment with us.
When a loved one decides to go to rehab, it can be a challenging yet hopeful time for families. Knowing what to expect and how to support them before treatment begins can make the transition smoother for everyone involved.
This stage often involves recognising the need for professional help, exploring treatment options, and having open conversations about what rehab entails. It’s also a time to prepare emotionally and practically, ensuring your loved one feels supported as they take this important step towards recovery.
How to talk to your loved one about rehab
Talking to a loved one about rehab can be difficult, but approaching the conversation with care, understanding and support can make a difference. Here are some key steps:
- Choose the right time and place – have the conversation when they are calm and in a private setting, free from distractions
- Express concern without blame – use 'I' statements to share how their behaviour is affecting them and those around them (for example, “I’m really worried about you”)
- Listen without judgement – allow them to share their feelings and concerns without interrupting or criticising them
- Encourage professional help – suggest speaking to an addiction specialist or attending an assessment to explore their options.
How to get a loved one into rehab
Once you've spoken to your loved one about their addiction, together you can look at treatment providers and gather information about their path to recovery. To better understand our treatment services, call us today.
Free addiction assessment
An addiction assessment is a useful first step in your loved one's addiction recovery journey. The assessment can be carried out in-person or over the phone, with no obligation to proceed with treatment.
This initial discussion will be with an addiction therapist, but if someone is struggling with prescription drug addiction, we recommend seeing a consultant first. During this conversation, the therapist will assess the person's situation, explain the admissions process, and outline our commitment to confidentiality and safeguarding. We'll also provide information about therapy and detox programmes.
During the addiction assessment, we’ll explore various aspects of your loved one's life and addiction, covering areas such as:
- The substances or behaviours they’re currently struggling with
- Significant life events or stressors they may have experienced recently
- How long they’ve been using or engaging in this behaviour, and how frequently
- Whether they find it difficult to control their use, or stop once they start
FAQs
How do I know if my loved one needs rehab?
If your loved one’s substance use or addictive behaviour is affecting their daily life, relationships, health or responsibilities, rehab may be the best option. Signs they may need professional treatment include:
- Struggling to control their substance use despite negative consequences
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using
- Prior failed attempts to stop or cut down on their own
- Changes in mood, behaviour or physical health
- Neglecting work, family or personal responsibilities
If you're unsure, a professional assessment can help determine the right level of care for your loved one.
Can I be there during the addiction assessment?
Yes, family members are welcome to attend the free addiction assessment if your loved one is comfortable with it. Having a supportive presence can be helpful, and you may also gain a better understanding of the treatment options available.
How long does rehab last?
Inpatient addiction treatment typically lasts for 28 days, including a 7 to 10-day detox.
While 28 days is the most effective timeframe for long-term recovery, we also offer shorter stays in certain circumstances. If needed, your loved one can stay for longer, particularly if they need additional support to maintain their progress before transitioning back to everyday life.
After leaving rehab, they'll receive 12 months of free aftercare, ensuring they have the ongoing support they need to stay on track in their recovery journey.
How do we pay for rehab?
At Priory, there are two main ways to fund rehab treatment:
- Private medical insurance (PMI) – we work with a variety of PMI providers. If your loved one has insurance, they'll need to check directly with their provider to confirm whether their policy covers addiction treatment at Priory
- Self-pay – many people choose to pay for their treatment themselves, which allows for quicker access to care without the need for approval from an insurance provider. Our team can provide details on costs and guide you through the self-payment process
If you’re unsure about payment options, our admissions team is happy to help explain the process
When your loved one enters rehab, it’s natural to wonder how involved you can be in their journey.
We recognise the vital role families and loved ones play in recovery. That's why we encourage regular contact between you and your loved one when they're in treatment, whether through phone and video calls, or in-person visits. We'll always be as flexible as possible to help you stay connected with your loved one, while ensuring their recovery remains the priority.
Where your loved one will stay
Your loved one will stay in one of our beautiful, tranquil settings, with access to comfortable accommodation, dedicated therapy rooms, activity spaces and peaceful areas to unwind. With round-the-clock care and an environment designed to support both comfort and recovery, we provide the ideal space for healing.
1 of 3
FAQs
Can I visit my loved one during their stay?
Yes, family visits are encouraged as part of the recovery process. However, visits are typically structured to support your loved one’s treatment. There may be designated visiting times, and some programmes offer family therapy sessions to help rebuild relationships and provide guidance on supporting recovery.
Will I be involved in the treatment process?
When your loved one enters treatment with us, you'll be invited to join our family support programme. We recognise that addiction affects the whole family, so from day one, we offer guidance, education and emotional support to help you understand the recovery process and begin your own journey of healing alongside your loved one.
Will they have access to their phone and the internet?
Each hospital will have their own guidelines around phone and internet use. In the early stages, access may be limited to help your loved one focus on their recovery without distractions. However, they may be allowed scheduled phone calls or monitored access to stay in touch with family and loved ones.
What does a typical day in rehab look like?
A typical day in rehab follows a structured routine designed to support recovery. While schedules vary, here’s what your loved one can generally expect:
- Mornings - often start with a healthy breakfast, followed by group therapy or mindfulness activities, like meditation
- Therapy sessions - throughout the day, they’ll take part in evidence-based addiction therapy, which will take place individually as well as in groups
- Workshops and activities - educational sessions on addiction, coping strategies and relapse prevention, along with activities such as exercise, art or holistic therapies.
- Dinnertime - regular, nutritious meals are provided, with some personal time for reflection or relaxation
- Evenings - group support meetings, light activities, or journaling before winding down for the night
See an example timetable here.
Rehab provides a balance of structured treatment and personal reflection time, helping your loved one focus on their recovery in a supportive environment.
Once your loved one finishes their stay in rehab, we'll continue to support you both for a further 12 months. This includes access to aftercare sessions, guidance on maintaining recovery, and ongoing support to help you and your loved one navigate life after treatment.
FAQs
What should we expect when they return home?
Transitioning back home after rehab can be challenging, but with the right support, it can be a positive step forward. You can expect:
- Adjustments to daily life – your loved one may need time to establish new routines and avoid old triggers
- Ongoing therapy and aftercare – continued counselling, group therapy, or support meetings can help them maintain progress
- Relapse prevention strategies – they'll have tools to manage cravings and stressful situations, and you can support them with this
- Changes in relationships – recovery may involve setting new boundaries, improving communication and rebuilding trust.
- Support for you as well – you'll also receive family support, helping you navigate this new chapter together
Are there support groups or counselling available for family members too?
Once your loved one has been discharged from Priory, we will continue to support you both for 12 months. We can provide regular meetings and alumni events as well as signpost you to local support groups.
There are also many support groups and counselling services available specifically for families affected by addiction. Groups like Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, and Adfam offer a space to connect with others who understand your experience.
How do we recognise the early signs of relapse?
Relapse doesn’t happen suddenly - it’s often a gradual process with warning signs. These may include changes in mood, withdrawing from loved ones, avoiding recovery meetings or therapy, increased stress, or romanticising past substance use. You might also notice changes in their sleep, appetite, or general attitude towards recovery. If you sense they’re struggling, open a supportive conversation and encourage them to seek help before a relapse occurs.
Learn more:
We understand that supporting a loved one with addiction can be difficult, but support is available to help you. Here are some helpful guides to help you manage and overcome challenges you might face:
