A peer support group for carers impacted by substance use
If you’re caring for someone affected by alcohol or drug misuse, you are not alone. You’re also not alone in the mix of emotions you may be feeling like shock, shame, anger, guilt, fear, overwhelming sadness, and vulnerability. The list can feel endless, but it’s important to know that there are other people who understand what you’re going through.
Branches is a peer support group specifically for those caring for someone with a drug or alcohol problem – whether you’re a parent, son, daughter, partner, sibling, grandparent or friend.
They meet every week at the Live Well Hub in Middlesbrough to offer a safe, welcoming space where you can speak openly without judgement. You’ll be with people who genuinely understood what you’re going through and who will listen and offer support.
When you’re caring for someone with a substance use problem it often feels like you’re “First in the Firing Line” bearing the brunt of it all with everything resting on your shoulders. Carers at Branches describe it as feeling like you’re carrying a "dirty secret"; making it difficult to ask for help or even open up to family and friends about it. And if you’ve had bad experiences seeking support in the past you may feel reluctant to try again. But that’s where Branches come in.
“The aim of Branches Carers Group is to support carers who care or support someone with a drug or alcohol problem because drugs and alcohol not only affect the misuser but impact greatly on other members of the family.
“At Branches you will meet people who understand what you’re going through who will listen and support you without judgement as many have gone through and are still going through what you are experiencing.” Branches support group.
Norma, who runs Branches and has personal experience caring for a loved one with addiction, explains:
“Unfortunately there’s still a lot of stigma around drug and alcohol addiction, even from professionals. You find that your loved ones don’t always get the respect and care they really deserve. And on top of that you’re dealing with your own feelings of shame, guilt, and self-blame. It’s a really isolating and scary time. Coping on your own isn’t easy, it’s stressful, hurtful, tiring and emotionally draining. No one prepares you for the situations you’ll face, and a lot of the time it feels like there is no one to talk to about what you’re going through and how to cope. That’s why having a peer support network like Branches is so important.”
“You come to Branches and you make friends for life” carer
“You won’t be judged. You won’t be made to feel guilty.” carer
One carer and a member of Branches talks about her personal situation with her daughter who has struggled with drug addiction since the age of 15.
“I have brought up her children. Her son is 17 and I have had him since he was two and a half years old. His sister is seven, nearly eight and I have had her since she was two. She goes weeks without seeing them and when she does I am on edge. If she isn’t in the same room as me I’m wondering what she’s up to, what’s she looking for? As far as I know now she is living rough. She is 44 years and I am 77.”
