Houghton House
Family support programme
Addiction is a family disease.
We help families navigate the crisis, chaos, and conflict that addiction causes.
There’s nothing harder than watching a loved one struggle with substance abuse
When someone you love is battling addiction, it can feel like you’re watching them destroy everything that matters — their health, their relationships, and their future. It’s an overwhelming and painful experience, leaving you feeling helpless, confused, and unsure what to do or how to help. Addiction affects every family member differently, creating a ripple effect of emotional challenges.
You can’t force recovery, but the right support makes all the difference.
With the right information, insights, and guidance, you can help yourself and your loved one through the difficult journey of addiction recovery.
Whether you’re working toward creating a supportive environment for recovery or simply trying to survive the chaos, we equip you with practical strategies and emotional support so you can make informed decisions, and create a path forward—no matter where you are on this journey.
If your loved one needs urgent professional treatment, a professional intervention can help. Reach out today. We respect your anonymity at all times.
Why family support matters
Family support plays a crucial role in the recovery process. Often, it’s the family that helps an addict recognize their problem and take that critical first step toward recovery.
Research shows that family involvement significantly improves the chances of success.
Through support, education, and validation, families not only contribute to the health and well-being of their loved ones but also find healing for themselves.
The benefits of our family support programme
Helping yourself
Connect with other families facing similar challenges
Share experiences and receive support from others who understand what you’re going through.
Gain clarity on handling difficult situations
Learn when to be gentle and when to be firm, and how to respond to inevitable obstacles
Learn techniques for healthy boundaries, self-care, and emotional recovery
Prioritise your own well-being and the health of your family during the recovery process.
Helping your loved one
- Understand the stages of treatment and the recovery process – Equip yourself with knowledge to better support your loved one
- Learn how addiction affects brain chemistry and impacts behaviour – Gain insight into the physical effects of addiction on your loved one
- Support your loved one effectively without enabling – Find ways to help them navigate their recovery journey while maintaining a healthy balance
- Develop open, healthy communication skills – Foster a supportive environment through better communication
- Recognize red-flag behaviours early on – Stay aware of warning signs and be prepared to intervene when necessary
To support your loved one, you need a strong support system of your own
Our Family Support Program offers a safe space for families and friends of addicts to come together, share, learn, and heal. You will gain a better understanding of addiction and recovery while building the tools you need to keep yourself healthy while you support your loved one’s journey to sobriety.
Family support meetings
For friends and family members of alcoholics and addicts, regardless of whether the person is in treatment or not.
What to expect
- Group sessions with other families facing similar challenges
- Educational lectures on addiction and recovery
- Small-group discussions for more personalised support
- Facilitated by certified addiction counsellors, social workers, and counselling psychologists
Meeting details
When: Thursdays, 17:30 – 19:00
Where: 420 York Ave, Ferndale (First Step)
Cost: R100 per person (can be claimed back from medical aid) cash and card payments accepted
To join:
Contact: Judith Gordon-Drake
Office hours: 011 787 9142
24/7 emergency helpline: 079 770 7532
Tips for Families of Addicts
Wherever you are in the journey—whether just beginning rehab or dealing with a loved one still in denial—we’re here to help. Here are some valuable tips to support your family during this difficult time:
- Learn as much as possible about addiction
- Connect with understanding peers
- Attend family therapy sessions. Set realistic expectations
- Make time for regular exercise and self-care
Additional resources
Al-Anon/Alateen: Support for families and friends of alcoholics.
Nar-Anon Family Groups: Support for those affected by someone else’s drug abuse.
Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA)/Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA): Programs designed for adults who grew up with addiction.
Families Anonymous: A 12-step program for families coping with a loved one’s addiction
Member of National Hospital Network
