When someone is in treatment for addiction, their world metaphorically stops. Outside responsibilities like work and other time commitments are rightly paused so they can focus on getting well and learning tools to stay sober.
But the world around them doesn’t stop—especially in the lives of their family members. These people are often the ones who pick up the slack while their loved ones are away; caring for children, paying bills, keeping up the house, and continuing to show up for work, to name a few. The stress of this burden is amplified by the trauma they’ve experienced during their relative’s active alcohol use disorder or drug addiction.
Supporting a loved one in addiction treatment can be an incredibly isolating experience. While juggling the demands of day-to-day life, family members often feel overlooked as their loved one receives praise and admiration for seeking help. Amid this, they may grapple with feelings of confusion, hurt, and a profound sense of being lost, leaving them alone with the emotional weight of the situation.
Recovery is a Team Effort
At Northstar, we understand that no one can beat an addiction alone, and that the family is the cornerstone of successful recovery. We involve partners, spouses, and loved ones in their family member’s treatment plans and progress. And, as of November 2024, we have launched our Family Support Groups for both our Southborough, MA and West Springfield, MA locations.
Family meetings are held on Mondays from 6:00pm – 7:30pm, and are led by trained clinicians and addiction recovery professionals. Any adult with a loved one who is a current or former client of Northstar may attend.
“As I support my husband’s sobriety journey, Northstar’s family support group has become a haven for me of support, resources, and community. I leave each meeting empowered to take care of myself, and in doing so, better caring for my loved ones.”
— Bethany, wife of Northstar alumni
Why Attend Northstar Family Groups?
Our Family Support Groups offer loved ones a healing environment to share their experience with others who have walked in the same shoes. You will gain a support network and have a direct connection with your family member’s recovery.
- Grow Together. Share messages of hope, speak to your personal experiences, and identify with others’ in an inclusive, non-judgmental community.
- Learn Recovery. Our Family Support Group gives members the tools to support recovery, avoid enabling, and spot early signs of a relapse. Hear from clinicians and guest speakers, and take an active role in your loved one’s journey to lasting sobriety.
- Get Resources. Take home actionable advice, resources, and discussion topics to help you between meetings.
- Get Support & Support Others: We encourage attendees to keep in touch with one another outside of meetings, so that everyone has a stable support network of people they can relate to.
West Springfield family meetings take place the 1st and 3rd Monday of every month. Southborough family meetings are on the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month. You may join in-person or virtually from 6:00pm – 7:30pm.
We Can’t Wait to Welcome You!
For more information about Northstar Family Support Groups, or to let us know you plan to attend, contact us by phone (888-311-0911) or email (info@northstarrecoverycenter.com). You may also download our flyer by clicking the link below!