Families of drug addicts suffer trauma and endure lives dominated by fear, report says

Based on previous studies, the research by a new organisation, Families in Addiction Recovery Ireland (FARI), estimates that as many as 280,000 family members are impacted by addiction to drugs and/or alcohol. File picture

Psychological trauma and personal safety fears dominate the lives of families who have loved ones suffering from drug addiction, according to new research. Relationship and family breakdown, as well as drug debts and financial stress, also torment these families.

Based on previous studies, the research estimates that as many as 280,000 family members are impacted by addiction to drugs and/or alcohol. The report is being published on Monday along with the launch of a new organisation, Families in Addiction Recovery Ireland (FARI).