What it is
A practical programme for people affected by someone else's addictive behaviour
When someone close to you is struggling with alcohol, drugs, gambling, or another addictive behaviour, it can be stressful, isolating, and exhausting. Family & Friends shifts the focus from trying to fix another person to focusing on your own boundaries, self-management, and effective communication skills.
The programme adapts SMART Recovery tools for family members, partners, friends, colleagues, and carers. It can be used alongside counselling, treatment, other peer support, or practical supports already in place.
Who it is for
Open to anyone affected by someone else's addictive behaviour
You do not need a diagnosis, referral, or permission from the other person to attend. Family & Friends may be useful if you are a parent, partner, adult child, sibling, friend, colleague, or carer.
We focus on the affect the behaviour of another is having on our life and how we choose to respond.
What to expect from a meeting
Every meeting is shaped by the group participants. Family & Friends meetings usually touch on the following topics.
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Strategies to problem solve situations impacting on your wellbeing.
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Gain understanding of motivation and its importance when setting goals.
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Develop a Self-Care Plan
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Enhance and develop your skill and knowledge around Behaviour
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Feel supported by others experiencing similar difficulties.
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Insights around self-management of emotional upsets.
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Strategies for setting personal goals.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The programme is for you, regardless of whether the other person is attending support, seeking treatment, or ready to change.
No. New participants are welcome to listen and observe until they feel comfortable contributing.
No. Family & Friends can be relevant where someone else's alcohol, drug, gambling, or other addictive behaviour is affecting you.
Meetings are run by trained facilitators. Some facilitators may also have lived experience of being affected by a loved one's relationship with alcohol, drugs, gambling, or other addictive behaviours.
No. The focus is on your wellbeing, choices, self-management strategies, communication, and boundaries.
Ready to find support?
Search current SMART Recovery Ireland meetings for the latest Family & Friends details, or contact familyandfriends@smartrecovery.ie.