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Easter is often seen as a time of renewal, family gatherings, and hope. But for families affected by addiction, it can bring a complex mix of emotions—grief, anxiety, frustration, and sometimes even guilt. If your loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, Easter might not look like the picture-perfect celebration you once imagined. Instead, it can be a painful reminder of what has been lost, or a time when difficult family dynamics come to the surface.

Mother’s Day in the UK is a time to celebrate mums and all they do for us. It’s a day for flowers, breakfast in bed, and heartfelt “thank yous.” But for mothers with a child struggling with addiction, this day can bring a mix of emotions—love, sadness, hope, and sometimes, heartache.

If you think your teen is using or may use drugs or alcohol – firstly, don’t panic! Most young people don’t do drugs, and most of those who do won’t continue using them. One-off or even occasional use does not mean addiction. But, of course, we’d rather they didn’t do drugs or drink at all. There are many reasons why teens use substances, but try comparing it to why you do something—like when you’re choosing what to eat.

Hannah Perry sits down with the Families Out Loud marketing team to discuss her personal history with drug and alcohol addiction and recovery.

According to the American Cancer Society, substance abuse and addiction make up about 30% of all cancer deaths.

As the New Year unfolded, many people embraced Dry January and took time to reflect on their relationship with alcohol and prioritise health and wellbeing. For families affected by drug or alcohol addiction, January can be bittersweet.

Christmas and New Year closure

When one person in the family is battling addiction, it affects everyone. Relationships can get strained, communication breaks down, and before you know it, the whole family dynamic is turned upside down.

I’m Hannah, and I’m an alcoholic/addict. And my recovery date is December 6th 2023.