If you're scared of them, call 000 or 1800RESPECT 1800 737 732.
My child is using drugs or drinking, how can I help?
Start here
If your child is drinking or using drugs, stay calm and keep talking. Parents and families can call for advice any time, day or night.
3 places to call or visit
Family Drug Support Australia
Support for families and friends of people who use alcohol or other drugs.
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
Last checked: 4 Nov 2026
National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline
Advice about someone's alcohol or drug use. SA calls are answered 8.30am–10pm.
Hours: 24/7 nationally; some state lines have set hours (SA 8.30am–10pm).
Last checked: 4 Nov 2026
Al-Anon Family Groups Australia
For people affected by someone else's drinking. HomeCircle isn't part of this group.
Last checked: 4 Nov 2026
Understanding addiction (for them and for you)
Finding out your child is drinking or using drugs is scary. Many parents feel this. Staying calm and keeping the door open matters most.
Addiction is a health problem, not a choice someone makes every day. People can and do recover, but it often takes time and more than one try.
For you: worry, anger, guilt and sadness are all normal. You matter too.
What to say and what not to say
Pick a calm time when they're sober. Use “I” words and keep it short.
Try saying
- “I'm here for you, no matter what.”
- “Can you help me understand what's going on?”
- “Let's find someone to talk to together.”
Try not to
- Yelling or shaming
- Searching their phone or messages
- Talking when they're drunk or high
- Giving up on them
Withdrawal warning signs and when to call 000
Call 000 for a seizure, confusion or collapse.
Family meetings, support groups and counselling
You don't have to work this out alone. Family support groups are free meetings where people with a loved one who drinks, uses drugs or gambles share what helps. Counselling services can help the whole family talk.
HomeCircle isn't part of these groups.
Family Drug Support Australia
A support line and meetings for families and friends of people who use alcohol or other drugs, and for bereaved families.
Hours: 24 hours, 7 days
Last checked: 4 Nov 2026
Al-Anon Family Groups Australia
Meetings for families and friends of people with a drinking problem.
Last checked: 4 Nov 2026
Gam-Anon (listed on Gamblers Anonymous Australia's site)
For families and friends of people with a gambling problem.
Last checked: 4 Nov 2026
Relationships Australia
Counselling, mediation and family support for individuals, couples and families.
Last checked: 4 Nov 2026
Looking after yourself
- You didn't cause it, and you can't fix it alone.
- Sleep, eat and get outside when you can.
- Keep up with friends and things you enjoy.
- Set limits that keep you safe, and stick to them.
- Talk to someone: a GP, a counsellor, or a family support group.
Last checked: 4 Nov 2026
Worried about violence?
If you feel unsafe, there is help in every state and territory.
Domestic and family violence helpLegal questions
Questions about protection orders, custody or making someone get treatment need proper legal advice. We can't give legal steps. Please don't secretly track someone's phone, location or messages. It can break the law, it can be a form of abuse, and it usually damages trust. Talk to a counsellor or Family Drug Support about other ways to help.
Queensland: Legal Aid Queensland's Legal Information Line gives free legal information (Mon–Fri 8:30am–4:30pm AEST, except public holidays).
Other states and territories: National Legal Aid links to all 8 state and territory Legal Aid commissions, with a Find legal help page.
For family and domestic violence, 1800RESPECT can help any time on 1800 737 732.
Young people can call Kids Helpline any time on 1800 55 1800.
Last checked: 4 Nov 2026
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Last checked: 4 Nov 2026. HomeCircle is a free support app, not medical care, and isn't part of any service listed here.