MindSG

Explore our suite of self-care tools and resources to help you better understand and manage your mental health.

CONTRIBUTED BY

Health Promotion Board

Understanding addictions

Most of us juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, balancing work, social life, not forgetting family commitments. As our family members go through life changes, these changes can sometimes become stressful. When stress gets overwhelming, some may turn to unhealthy coping methods such as addiction as a way to escape or cope with their challenges.

As a result, addictions can pose significant risks to their well-being, often making them spiral into a destructive cycle that affects their health.

What are addictions?

Addictions are patterns of behaviour where a person becomes strongly attached or dependent on something to the point where it becomes difficult to control or stop that behaviour even if it has negative consequences on their life.

Types of addictions

These addictions can involve substances like alcohol or be related to certain activities or behaviours, such as gambling or smoking. The effects reach far, impacting our physical and mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.

Read on to learn more about these addictions and how we can support family members who may be struggling with addiction.

Understanding alcohol use disorder

For some of us, drinking might start as a social activity at parties or casual gatherings; a way to unwind or meet new people without the awkwardness. But sometimes, what begins as occasional drinking can grow into something more, where one finds themselves drinking not just for enjoyment, but out of a need that feels beyond their control.

What is alcohol use disorder?

Alcohol use disorder, or alcohol addiction, is an addictive condition that leads to impaired control, psychological dependence and physiological changes associated with the problematic excessive usage of alcohol.

When one drinks excessively, their bodies struggle to process the alcohol, leading to a buildup of harmful substances. Beyond the physical effects, alcohol addiction can land one in risky situations, like drunk driving or engaging in risky behaviours, putting our safety and the safety of those around them in danger.

How does alcohol use disorder affect the body?

Those living with alcohol addiction may face severe health problems over time, including liver failure, various cancers, long-lasting brain damage, or memory issues. Alcohol also works as a depressant, slowing down brain functions, which can lead to poor memory and decision-making.

As the brain adapts to regular alcohol consumption, it takes more alcohol to achieve the same euphoric effect, leading to a dangerous cycle of increased drinking over time. When one tries to stop, withdrawal symptoms can set in, ranging from mild discomfort like hand tremors or poor sleep, to more severe reactions such as confusion, hallucinations, and seizures. In some cases, withdrawal can be life-threatening.

What puts my family member at risk?

Genetics, psychological state, social environment, and personal experiences can affect how alcohol impacts a person. Some signs that one might be developing an alcohol addiction include:

Binge drinking (e.g. 5 or more standard drinks* for men, or 4 or more drinks for women in one drinking session)

Other factors:

Drinking at an early age
Family history of alcohol use
Co-occurring mental health conditions * A standard alcoholic drink is defined as a can (330 ml) of regular beer, half a glass (100 ml) of wine or 1 nip (30 ml) of spirit

Common
misconceptions

01 It is okay to drink in moderation every day, as long as they keep within limits.

What people may think:

It is okay to drink in moderation every day, as long as they keep within limits.

Did you know?
Regular drinking can alter brain function over time and lead to a cycle where one craves more alcohol. When one tries to stop, withdrawal symptoms develop, pulling them deeper into the addiction.

02 It is okay to drink regularly for social reasons.

What people may think:

It is okay to drink regularly for social reasons.

Did you know?
Alcohol, in any amount, affects physical and mental abilities, lowering speed and accuracy. In excess, it can lead to drunken behaviour, increasing the risk of car accidents and injuries (e.g. permanent disability and death).

03 Beer and wine are less intoxicating than liquor, so it is okay to drink more of them.

What people may think:

Beer and wine are less intoxicating than liquor, so it is okay to drink more of them.

Did you know?
A standard glass of wine, bottle of beer or a shot of whiskey contains equivalent amounts of alcohol. Thus, a 350ml can of beer, a 120ml glass of wine, or a normal mixed drink or cocktail are all equally intoxicating and give the same blood alcohol content (BAC).

Signs of alcohol
use disorder

Signs of alcohol use disorder

Alcohol use disorder can range from mild to severe, depending on the number of symptoms the individual experiences.

Some of the common signs include:

Struggling to limit alcohol intake, even when one wants to
Strong cravings for alcohol
Continued drinking despite it causing problems in one's personal and/or professional life
Continued drinking despite experiencing physical, social, or interpersonal problems related to alcohol
Giving up activities once enjoyed because of drinking
Drinking in risky situations (e.g. driving, swimming, handling machinery)
Needing more alcohol to feel the same effects
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms (e.g. nausea, sweating, hand tremors or craving alcohol to avoid withdrawal symptoms)

Diagnosis

Healthcare professionals can diagnose alcohol use disorder by discussing the individual’s medical and psychiatric history, family history, current symptoms, and how alcohol has affected the individual’s daily life. There must be a problematic usage of alcohol that has led to significant impairment over a 12‑month duration, exhibited by at least 2 of the following:

Increasing usage of alcohol, or over a longer period than originally intended
Repeated unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control usage, despite the desire to do so
Large amount of time spent on activities to obtain, use, or recover from the effects of alcohol
Presence of a strong desire or urge to use alcohol
Repeated alcohol usage resulting in a significant failure to fulfil major roles
Persistent alcohol use despite recurring social or interpersonal problems, with continued consumption despite awareness of the physical or psychological issues it causes.
Giving up important activities due to the alcohol use
Repeated usage despite significant impairments in physical health
Tolerance as defined by either:
- Need for increasing amounts of alcohol to achieve the same or desired effects, or
- Reduced effects with continued use of the same amount of alcohol
Withdrawal as defined by either:
- Characteristic withdrawal symptoms, or
- Alcohol being used to prevent or avoid withdrawal symptoms

Supporting a family member with an alcohol problem

01 Approach the topic of their alcohol use with respect and sensitivity. Share what you’ve noticed about their drinking, and explain how it’s affecting the family.

02

03 Remember, addiction doesn’t define them—they are battling a challenge, not a flaw.

04 Encourage them to seek help, offering support and connecting them with professional resources if needed.

A GUIDE TO

Preventing
alcohol addiction

Help our family member avoid the use of alcohol as a coping method

Relying on alcohol to address insomnia, low mood or personal issues is counterproductive.

Alcohol can greatly reduce the quality of one’s sleep. Alcohol has been shown to induce low mood or worsen depressive symptoms.

Moderation is key

Recent research has shown that zero alcohol consumption is better but if we and our family member decide to enjoy alcohol, then drink within the recommended levels or less.

Encourage our family member to avoid binge drinking

Binge drinking, is defined as consuming 5 or more standard drinks for men and 4 or more for women, significantly raises the risk of developing alcohol use disorder.

Eat before and during a drinking session

To prevent intoxication, encourage our family member to eat before and during drinking to slow down alcohol absorption. Avoid salty foods, as they increase thirst and alcohol consumption.

When drinking, take small sips

Encourage our family member to take small sips instead of chugging their drink. It can help them pace themselves, maintain better control over their alcohol intake, and make it easier for their body to process the alcohol.

Ensure our family member is taking enough fluids

Staying hydrated is essential, especially when consuming alcohol, as it can cause dehydration, particularly in the brain, leading to headaches and more severe hangovers.

Avoid or refrain from buying or stocking up on alcohol at home

Limiting access to alcohol in our immediate environment creates a physical barrier that helps reduce temptation and prevent excessive drinking.

Moderation is key

Recent research has shown that zero alcohol consumption is better but if we and our family member decide to enjoy alcohol, then drink within the recommended levels or less.

Men should consume no more than 2 standard drinks a day, and women, no more than 1. A standard drink is typically a can (330 ml) of regular beer, half a glass (100 ml) of wine, or 1 nip (30 ml) of spirits. Swapping alcohol for non-alcoholic beverages can help one stay within these limits and reduce the chances of over-consumption.

Tips to prevent alcohol addiction

The best approach to prevent addiction to alcohol is to consider avoiding alcohol at family gatherings and exploring alternative bonding activities like picnics, board games, or movie nights. However, if alcohol is involved, encourage our family members to practice healthier drinking habits to reduce the risk of addiction.

Treatment

Alcohol use disorder is a serious chronic illness which needs to be treated as early as possible to prevent development of other potentially severe health complications.

Most individuals can be treated on an outpatient basis, but some may need inpatient care, especially if there is a history of severe health problems, previous seizures or delirium.

Recovery is possible with the right support and commitment to change. The first step in treatment is often detoxification, which usually takes about a week. After detox, ongoing counselling and, if necessary, medications can help prevent relapse and support recovery.

Finding Support:
Mental health services

If your family member is struggling with alcohol addiction, consider reaching out to one of the following resources:

National Addictions Management Service (NAMS)

Visit www.nams.sg
Call the All Addictions Helpline at 6‑7326837 (6‑RECOVER)
- Operating hours: Everyday 8:30am‑9:00pm (inclusive of public holiday)
BRIDGE Family: A support group for family members and caregivers who deal with someone struggling from addiction. The support group aims to empower them with coping skills and better understand how to manage an individual with an addiction
- Every Tuesday, 7:00pm – 8:30pm at NAMS Clinic (except eve of public holidays and public holidays)

We Care

A Community-Based Addiction Recovery Centre that treats all forms of addictions including drugs, alcohol, and compulsive behaviours like problem gambling. They provide counselling, education and therapy groups and also has community-based drop-in centre.

Alcoholics Anonymous

This is a fellowship of men and women who share their experiences, strength and hope with each other, that they may solve their common problem and help others in recovery.

SobeRISE

This is a specialised programme offers support and assistance to individuals and families affected by issues associated with alcohol abuse.

First Stop for Mental Health

Not sure whom to reach out to? You can approach any of these First Stop for Mental Health. They can help identify your mental health needs, provide brief support, and guide you to the most suitable services:

National mindline
(24-hour)

1-771

6669-1771

In-person services

CREST

CHAT (for individuals aged 16-30)

Digital

mindline.sg

National mindline
(24-hour)

In-person services

Digital

Alternatively, you can click here to explore mental health resources and services located near you.

References

Understanding gambling addiction

Gambling often begins as a social activity, but it can turn into an addiction when it leads to compulsive behaviour like lying, stealing, and distancing from loved ones. This not only harms the individual but also affects their family and relationships.

As family members, we may unintentionally react in unhelpful ways—by blaming, shaming, or enabling their behaviour. It’s important to learn about gambling addiction and consult a mental health professional for guidance.

How does it affect our family member?

What puts my family member at risk?

How does it affect our family member?

Gambling addiction can cause serious harm to psychological and physical health. Individuals who live with this addiction may also experience depression, anxiety, distress, physical health issues and other psychological and emotional issues. It also has a rippling effect, negatively impacting family, friends and significant others associated with the individual who has the gambling addiction.

What puts my family member at risk?

These factors can increase the risk of gambling addiction:

Family history of addiction or mental health issues
- Individuals with parents or immediate family members with a history of addictions or serious mental health issues are at higher risk.
Individuals who are already dealing with a substance addiction like drugs and alcohol.
Social environment where:
- Individuals who grew up in an environment there is an over emphasis or importance placed on money.
- Individuals who have lived or are living in an environment of extreme poverty.

Common
misconceptions

01 As family members, we shouldn’t help settle our loved one’s debt—they should face the consequences of their actions.

What people may think:

As family members, we shouldn’t help settle our loved one’s debt—they should face the consequences of their actions.

Did you know?
As family, we play a crucial role in supporting them. It’s important to discuss with other family members if you can help settle the debt. If so, set clear terms, such as them seeking professional help and eventually repaying the money.

02 The problem lies solely on our loved one—they should just change.

What people may think:

The problem lies solely on our loved one—they should just change.

Did you know?
Gambling addiction is hard to overcome without professional help. Those struggling often have strong urges to gamble, even when they want to stop. Encouraging them to seek professional support is key.

03 If our loved one relapses into gambling, it means they don’t care about the family.

What people may think:

If our loved one relapses into gambling, it means they don’t care about the family.

Did you know?
Relapses can be a part of the recovery process, often triggered by unexpected challenges or insufficient recovery plans. Rather than seeing relapses as failure, it should be viewed as a learning opportunity to reduce future risks.

04 It’s rude to approach a senior family member about how their gambling is affecting others.

What people may think:

It’s rude to approach a senior family member about how their gambling is affecting others.

Did you know?
There are respectful ways to talk to an elderly family member about their gambling. You can express your love and concern, gently share what you’ve noticed about their gambling, and explain how it’s impacting the family.

Offer encouragement and support, help connect them with professional help, and reassure them that they are still valued decision-makers in the family.

Signs of gambling addiction

As family members, we can lookout for certain signs and symptoms that may point towards a gambling addiction.

Signs of gambling addiction

As family members, we can lookout for certain signs and symptoms that may point towards a gambling addiction.

Behavioural Signs

Avoiding work, self-care and other commitments to gamble
Taking bigger risks while gambling
Cheating or stealing to fund gambling or pay debts
Conflicts over money with other people
Obsessing over any type of gambling
Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
Struggling to control, or cut down gambling
Frequently thinking and talking about gambling
Feeling secretive about gambling
Failed attempts to reduce or control gambling

Emotional Signs

Withdraws from family and friends
Distant, anxious, or has difficulty paying attention
Mood swings and sudden outbursts of anger
Boredom or restlessness

Financial Signs

Frequently borrowing money or asking for salary advances
Cashing in savings accounts or insurance plans
Alternating between being broke and flashing money

Health Signs

Headaches
Stomach issues
Difficulty sleeping
Changes in appetite

Diagnosis

Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behaviour leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as indicated by the individual exhibiting four (or more) of the following in a 12-month period.

Diagnosis

Persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behaviour leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as indicated by the individual exhibiting four (or more) of the following in a 12-month period:

Problem gambling: 1-3 criteria met
Mild disordered gambling: 4–5 criteria met
Moderate disordered gambling: 6-7 criteria met
Severe disordered gambling: 8–9 criteria met

Needs to gamble with increasing amounts of money in order to achieve the desired excitement
Restless or irritable when attempting to cut down or stop gambling
Repeated unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
Often preoccupied with gambling (e.g. having constant thoughts of reliving past gambling experiences, hindering or planning the next venture, thinking of ways to get money to gamble with)
Often gambles when feeling distressed (e.g. helpless, guilty, anxious, depressed)
After losing money gambling, often returns another day to get even (“chasing” one’s losses)
Lies to conceal the extent of involvement with gambling
Has jeopardised or lost a significant relationship, job, or educational or career opportunity because of gambling
Relies on others to provide money to relieve desperate financial situations caused by gambling

Additionally, gambling behaviour can lead to significant mood changes such as feeling unusually happy or on the other hand, highly irritable. These mood shifts can last more than a day and may extend for weeks or longer.

Supporting our family member with a gambling problem

01 There are respectful ways of approaching a family member to breach the sensitive topic on their gambling problem.

02 Find out more information on gambling addictions from reliable sources or speak to a professional that may provide tips on helping our loved ones with their addictions

03 Tell them that you love and care for them while highlighting what you have noticed about their relationship with gambling as well as expressing how it may be affecting the rest of the family.

04 Keep in mind that your loved one is battling with an addiction and that their addiction does not make them a bad person.

05 Provide them with the encouragement and support to seek help. Offer to connect them with professional help if needed.

Treatment

Treatment for gambling addiction typically involves both individual and group therapy. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is effective in managing the condition, and self-help models like SMART Recovery can provide additional support.

SMART Recovery is a 4-step programme that is designed to help individuals overcome their problems with gambling addiction, and covers these topics:

Enhancing and maintaining motivation to quit
Coping with urges
Managing problems
Lifestyle Balance

Find out more about SMART Recovery here.

Group therapy is another effective approach that works great for many and we can go through WE CARE Community Services or National Addiction Management Services (NAMS) clinic. Many individuals choose to partner with a behavioural services facility to find the right balance of inpatient and outpatient care.

Psychologists often involve family members in the treatment process since they can help reinforce skills needed to overcome addiction. These include:

Educating family members about gambling addiction
Allowing a trusted family member to attend treatment sessions together
Addressing the emotional needs of family members to improve communication and problem-solving
Providing flexible, family-centred treatment
Strengthening social support outside the family network, such as friends and colleagues

Finding Support:
Mental health services

If your family member is struggling with gambling addiction, consider reaching out to one of the following resources: 

National Addictions Management Service (NAMS)

Visit www.nams.sg
Call the All Addictions Helpline at 6‑7326837 (6‑RECOVER)
- Operating hours: Everyday 8:30am‑9:00pm (inclusive of public holiday)
BRIDGE Family: A support group for family members and caregivers who deal with someone struggling from addiction. The support group aims to empower them with coping skills and better understand how to manage an individual with an addiction
- Every Tuesday, 7:00pm – 8:30pm at NAMS Clinic (except eve of public holidays and public holidays)

We Care

First Stop for Mental Health

National mindline
(24-hour)

1-771

6669-1771

In-person services

CREST

CHAT (for individuals aged 16-30)

Digital

mindline.sg

National mindline
(24-hour)

In-person services

Digital

Alternatively, you can click here to explore mental health resources and services located near you.

References

Understanding smoking addiction

There may be moments where one reaches for a cigarette, despite knowing the potential harm. Smoking and using e-cigarettes carry risks to one’s health and to those around them. The nicotine in these products is highly addictive, making the journey feel particularly challenging.

The real dangers of smoking come from tar and other carcinogens found in tobacco. These harmful substances can lead to various cancers, heart disease, and stroke. And it’s not just what smoking does to our bodies—loved ones who are exposed to second-hand smoke face health risks as well.

One might think, “Well, I’m using e-cigarettes, they don’t contain tobacco, so it’s not as harmful.” Unfortunately, that isn’t the case. E-cigarettes still contain fine particulate matter (PM) and carcinogens, as well as metals like nickel, tin and lead from the device itself, which can lead to lung injuries. Furthermore, in Singapore, e-cigarettes are illegal, with fines of up to $2,000.

What is smoking
addiction?

What puts my family member at risk?

What is smoking addiction?

Have you ever felt like you just can’t quit, no matter how hard you try? That’s what smoking addiction —also known as Nicotine Dependence feels like. One finds themselves unable to stop using tobacco or nicotine products, even when they know they’re doing them harm.

Nicotine gets its hooks into people quickly. It affects their brains almost immediately, creating a tough cycle to break. One might find themselves smoking just to feel ‘normal’, and before they know it, they’re caught in a pattern that feels impossible to escape.

What puts my family member at risk?

Anyone who uses nicotine or tobacco-containing products is at risk of developing an addiction. Here are some factors that might increase this risk:

Family history of smoking
Smoking at a young age—our brain is still developing in adolescence, thus, children and youths are more susceptible to nicotine addiction compared to adults¹⁹

Common
misconceptions

01 Smoking one or a few cigarettes a day is not harmful. My family member is a casual smoker, so they won’t be affected.

What people may think:

Smoking one or a few cigarettes a day is not harmful. My family member is a casual smoker, so they won’t be affected.

Did you know?
Even light smoking can significantly increase our risk of serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke¹ and death².

Vaping can also have harmful effects, even in the short term. Users report side effects like dry mouth, throat irritation, headaches, and coughing.

02 Vaping (E-cigarettes) is safe because it doesn’t have tar.

What people may think:

Vaping (E-cigarettes) is safe because it doesn’t have tar.

Did you know?
Vaping is illegal and harmful. E-cigarette aerosols contain harmful chemicals and carcinogens, and the nicotine levels can be higher than in cigarettes. Vapes can also contain illicit drugs, in addition to nicotine.

03 Rolling my own cigarettes (Bidis) is less dangerous.

What people may think:

Rolling my own cigarettes (Bidis) is less dangerous.

Did you know?
Bidis often contain more carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and nicotine compared to traditional cigarettes. It is as harmful as manufactured ones, if not more.

04 It’s okay and normal for my family member to vape as many people do it.

What people may think:

It’s okay and normal for my family member to vape as many people do it.

Did you know?
Vaping is illegal in Singapore. If caught for vaping, your family member can be fined up to $2,000.

Signs of smoking addiction

If someone you care about is experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to consider reaching out for help

Signs of smoking addiction

If someone you care about is experiencing these symptoms, it might be time to consider reaching out for help:

Struggling to reduce or stop smoking and vaping
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, or depression when trying to quit
Continuing to smoke despite health issues
Giving up recreational activities, family time or socialising with others because of inability to smoke in certain situations

Diagnosis

A healthcare professional can diagnose nicotine dependence through a detailed clinical interview about the individual’s medical history, current symptoms, and how tobacco use is affecting their lives. The individual may also have to fill out a questionnaire to assess how dependent they are on nicotine.¹

A GUIDE TO

Additional support for quitting smoking and vaping

I Quit Programme

This tailored programme supports individuals through their quitting process by taking their lifestyle, habits, and level of smoking dependence into consideration. Tools available include daily SMS tips, weekly calls from trained QuitLine advisors or weekly face-to-face counselling sessions with health specialists.

Start to S.T.O.P.

Start to S.T.O.P. (Speak To Our Pharmacists) is a quit smoking programme championed by the Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore (PSS) Community Chapter. It is a nationwide collaborative effort by community pharmacy chains Guardian, Unity and Watsons to help people quit smoking and improve their health.

Visit here to learn more about this programme and select a location that is convenient for our family member.

iQuit Programme

For those who prefer to quit on their own without any programme support, there are resources available on the I Quit website where smokers and vapers can find out more tips on how to quit.

Smokers and vapers can also join I Quit club on Facebook featuring real-life testimonials from ex-smokers on their tips on quitting smoking to inspire others to start on their smoking cessation journey.

Smokers and vapers not on the I Quit programme may also contact HPB’s QuitLine advisors directly at 1800 438 2000* (Mon-Fri 8am-5pm) if they require additional ad hoc support.

*Airtime charges apply for mobile calls to 1800 service lines.

Remember, it’s okay to take more time off for yourself to manage this journey. Quitting smoking/vaping is a significant challenge, but with the right support and strategies, we can overcome it. Reach out to loved ones or professionals when you need help. You’re not alone in this.

Supporting our family member with nicotine dependence/tobacco use disorder

01 Make home a smoke-free, supportive environment

02 Choose non-smoking areas when dining out

03 Remove smoking triggers from home, such as lighters and ashtrays

04 Clean items that smell like smoke, such as clothes, curtains, and carpets

05 Offer to help with chores to reduce the stress

06 Keep snacks like sugar-free mints or veggie sticks handy for distraction

07 Be non-judgmental whilst encouraging them to quit

08 Guide them to seek help for smoking cessation

09 Help them manage stress

10 Celebrate their milestones and success

11 Continue support, as cravings and challenges may arise in the weeks or months of quitting

Treatment

Combining counselling with medical treatments like Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) can be very effective. NRT is available in forms such as patches, gum, or lozenges and helps manage the cravings with withdrawal symptoms our family member might face when trying to quit smoking.

They are advised to speak to their doctor before starting treatment. Together, they can explore which treatment best suits them.

Finding Support:
Mental health services

For mental health services related to addictions:

National Addictions Management Service (NAMS)

Visit www.nams.sg
Call the All Addictions Helpline at 6‑7326837 (6‑RECOVER)
- Operating hours: Everyday 8:30am‑9:00pm (inclusive of public holiday)
BRIDGE Family: A support group for family members and caregivers who deal with someone struggling from addiction. The support group aims to empower them with coping skills and better understand how to manage an individual with an addiction
- Every Tuesday, 7:00pm – 8:30pm at NAMS Clinic (except eve of public holidays and public holidays)

We Care

First Stop for Mental Health

National mindline
(24-hour)

1-771

6669-1771

In-person services

CREST

CHAT (for individuals aged 16-30)

Digital

mindline.sg

National mindline
(24-hour)

In-person services

Digital

Alternatively, you can click here to explore mental health resources and services located near you.

References

CONTRIBUTED BY

Health Promotion Board

MindSG

Understanding addictions

What are addictions?

Types of addictions

Alcohol

Gambling

Smoking

Understanding alcohol use disorder

What is alcohol use disorder?

What is alcohol use disorder?

How does alcohol use disorder affect the body?

How does alcohol use disorder affect the body?

What puts my family member at risk?

What puts my family member at risk?

Common misconceptions

01

It is okay to drink in moderation every day, as long as they keep within limits.

What people may think:

02

It is okay to drink regularly for social reasons.

What people may think:

03

Beer and wine are less intoxicating than liquor, so it is okay to drink more of them.

What people may think:

Signs of alcohol use disorder

Signs of alcohol use disorder

Diagnosis

Diagnosis

Supporting a family member with an alcohol problem

01

Approach the topic of their alcohol use with respect and sensitivity. Share what you’ve noticed about their drinking, and explain how it’s affecting the family.

02

Read more about alcohol addiction or consult a professional for guidance.

03

Remember, addiction doesn’t define them—they are battling a challenge, not a flaw.

04

Encourage them to seek help, offering support and connecting them with professional resources if needed.

A GUIDE TO

Preventingalcohol addiction

Help our family member avoid the use of alcohol as a coping method

Moderation is key

Encourage our family member to avoid binge drinking

Eat before and during a drinking session

When drinking, take small sips

Ensure our family member is taking enough fluids

Avoid or refrain from buying or stocking up on alcohol at home

Moderation is key

Tips to prevent alcohol addiction

Treatment

Treatment

Finding Support: Mental health services

National Addictions Management Service (NAMS)

We Care

Alcoholics Anonymous

SobeRISE

First Stop for Mental Health

Understanding gambling addiction

How does it affect our family member?

What puts my family member at risk?

How does it affect our family member?

What puts my family member at risk?

Common misconceptions

01

As family members, we shouldn’t help settle our loved one’s debt—they should face the consequences of their actions.

What people may think:

02

The problem lies solely on our loved one—they should just change.

What people may think:

03

If our loved one relapses into gambling, it means they don’t care about the family.

What people may think:

04

It’s rude to approach a senior family member about how their gambling is affecting others.

What people may think:

Signs of gambling addiction

Signs of gambling addiction

Diagnosis

Diagnosis

Supporting our family member with a gambling problem

01

Common
misconceptions

Signs of alcohol
use disorder

Preventing
alcohol addiction

Finding Support:
Mental health services

Common
misconceptions

Finding Support:
Mental health services

What is smoking
addiction?

Common
misconceptions

Finding Support:
Mental health services