Family support for addiction can start with a simple question: “How do I help someone I love?” If alcohol, drugs or prescription medication are affecting your household, you may feel worried, exhausted or unsure what to do next.
ARCA JHB provides family therapy and support as part of its approach to addiction recovery. Its Johannesburg centre combines medical treatment with psychological and social care, recognising that addiction also affects the people closest to the patient. ARCA Jhb
This guide explains how to enquire about treatment, prepare for family involvement and ask for support for yourself.
Why family support for addiction matters
A loved one’s substance use can leave families facing difficult questions. You might be concerned about their health, missed responsibilities or changes in your relationship. You may also disagree with other relatives about the next step.
Family counselling and support groups can help relatives navigate these challenges. They can also contribute to the person’s treatment and recovery.
You do not need to have every answer before asking for guidance. Start by writing down your concerns and the questions you want a professional to address.
For example:
- How can we discuss treatment with our loved one?
- What should we do if they decline help?
- How can we set appropriate boundaries?
- What support is available for family members?
- How will we be involved if treatment begins?
Preparing to talk about treatment
Think about what you want the conversation to achieve. A useful first goal is to invite your loved one to speak to a qualified professional.
You could say:
“I’m worried about what has been happening, and I care about you. Would you be willing to speak to someone about the treatment options?”
Prepare specific examples of your concerns rather than trying to settle every disagreement at once. You can also ask the treatment team for guidance before arranging a family discussion.
If you are worried about your safety, seek appropriate help before initiating the conversation. A family discussion should never take priority over immediate safety.
What if your loved one is not ready for help?
You can still contact a treatment centre to ask about available services and the process of seeking an assessment.
Explain what you have observed and what you are worried about. Be clear about what you know directly and what remains uncertain.
Useful questions include:
- Can a family member make an initial enquiry?
- What assessment would be needed?
- What are the consent requirements?
- Is intervention guidance available?
- Where can relatives access their own support?
ARCA JHB lists addiction treatment and intervention services on its website. Contact the team to discuss what guidance is appropriate for your circumstances. ARCA Jhb
Family support for addiction at ARCA JHB
ARCA JHB’s published treatment programme includes individual, group and family counselling. Its services also include medical detoxification, cognitive behavioural therapy and relapse prevention counselling. Treatment is tailored to individual patient needs. Explore ARCA JHB’s treatment options. ARCA Jhb
Before admission, ask the team how family participation will work. You should understand which sessions are available, who can attend and how appointments are arranged.
Questions about family counselling
Use your enquiry to clarify the practical details:
- What is the purpose of the family sessions?
- Can partners, parents or other caregivers participate?
- How are concerns from different family members handled?
- What information can be shared with relatives?
- How does the team obtain the patient’s consent?
These questions help establish realistic expectations. They also give the clinical team an opportunity to explain how privacy and family involvement are managed.
Preparing for admission
If treatment is arranged, confirm the current admission requirements directly with the centre.
Ask about documents, medication information, arrival arrangements and communication during the programme. You may also want a written explanation of fees and any medical-aid authorisation requirements.
Keep these details in one place so the family knows who to contact and what needs to happen next.
Planning for life after treatment
Before discharge, ask for a clear explanation of the recommended follow-up plan. Discuss who will organise appointments and how family members can participate appropriately.
Questions to raise include:
- What ongoing support is recommended?
- Who should we contact if concerns return?
- What should we understand about the recovery plan?
- Are family support sessions available after discharge?
- How can we discuss difficulties without delaying professional help?
ARCA JHB states that its programmes include one year of free aftercare group sessions for patients and families. Confirm the current schedule and participation arrangements with the team. ARCA Jhb
Remember your own support needs
When arranging care for someone else, make room to discuss your own concerns. You may want help with communication, household responsibilities or the emotional strain of the situation.
Ask whether individual counselling, family therapy or a support group would be suitable for you. Family members can benefit from having a space to discuss their experiences and learn about available support.
Seeking guidance is a practical step. It allows you to make decisions with professional input rather than carrying every question alone.
Frequently asked questions
Does ARCA JHB offer family support for addiction?
Yes. ARCA JHB lists family therapy, family counselling and aftercare support among its services. Contact the centre to confirm how these services apply to your situation. ARCA Jhb
Can I enquire on behalf of a loved one?
You can contact ARCA JHB to ask about treatment and assessment arrangements. Explain your relationship to the person and ask the team to clarify consent and admission requirements.
Can families attend aftercare sessions?
ARCA JHB’s treatment page states that patients and families have access to one year of free aftercare group sessions. Confirm eligibility and current arrangements before attending. ARCA Jhb
What should I ask during the first call?
Ask about assessment, treatment options, family participation, costs and admission requirements. Have a short account of your concerns ready so you can explain why you are seeking help.
Where is ARCA JHB located?
ARCA JHB is at 34 Steyn Avenue, Kelvin, Sandton, 2090. Contact the centre before travelling to arrange an appointment. ARCA Jhb
Contact ARCA JHB for family guidance
If you are looking for family support for addiction in Johannesburg, start by discussing your concerns with ARCA JHB. Ask about assessment, family counselling and the support available during and after treatment.
Contact ARCA JHB:
- 24-hour helpline: 062 277 0911
- Telephone: 011 656 0705
- Email: info@arcajhb.com
- Address: 34 Steyn Avenue, Kelvin, Sandton, 2090
- Online enquiries: Contact ARCA JHB ARCA Jhb
