Caring for someone with a dependence on alcohol or another drug

When someone uses alcohol or another drug the people around them are impacted. They can find themselves taking on the responsibility of caring for that person, often without any support for themselves.

Carers NSW has developed resources to assist those caring for a family member or friend with a dependence on alcohol or another drug. These resources have been developed following conversations with carers, in order to share some of their experience with others who might find themselves in similar caring roles.

Carers who support someone who uses alcohol or another drug can find themselves very isolated. It is hoped that through sharing the experiences of others we can help these carers to feel less alone and more supported while caring.

This information is also a valuable education resource for those working with families and carers of people who use alcohol or another drug.

These resources also provide links to other services and supports that may be able to assist carers.

• 3 minute video – Leanne’s story
• eLearning module is now available to access at https://lms.carersnsw.org.au
• 5 information sheets

1. Impacts of caring for someone who is dependent on alcohol or another drug
2. Carers talk about grief, loss and hope
3. Looking after yourself as a carer
4. What are emotional boundaries?
5. Carers talk about recovery

Feedback

To provide feedback on these resources as part of our evaluation, please complete the short survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CNSW_AoDeval2020