Relatives of people with substance abuse : Relatives' experiences of co-dependency and support/treatment

The purpose of this study is to increase understanding, through interviews, of how adult relatives of individuals with substance use disorder perceive the concept of codependency and their experience of caregiving. Furthermore, this study aims to shed light on how they experience their access to information and possibly support/treatment they received. The study utilizes qualitative data collected through interviews with ten family members, analyzed via thematic analysis. The findings reveal that many caregivers experience negative psychological and emotional consequences, including poor mental health, financial strain, feelings of shame, and fear of stigmatization. Although support and treatment are generally perceived as beneficial, many participants reported difficulties in accessing such resources due to a lack of awareness, unless individuals actively sought help or were informed by friends, family, or psychologist. The concept of codependency is also found to be understood in various ways, with participants distinguishing between being codependent and being a relative. The study concludes that family members of individuals with substance use disorders should be recognized as a vulnerable group in need of targeted support and treatment. Addressing their needs can mitigate the negative emotional consequences they face, such as shame and fear of stigmatization, and promote their well-being.