Bereaved Through Drug or Alcohol Use web version

UK Helpline: 0345 123 2304 | www.tcf.org.uk Bereavement Through Addiction - bdp.org.uk/bereavement Organises support groups, a helpline and an annual memorial service in Bristol. DrugFAM - drugfam.co.uk Offers support to families, friends and partners who are coping with a loved one’s addiction to drugs or alcohol and to those who have been bereaved by addiction or related causes. Social media Digital platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter can give us a place to express ourselves or read messages from friends and family. This can be very comforting, especially if these friends and family live far away from us. However, such platforms also have their potential downsides. There are sadly individuals out there who take advantage of the anonymity of social media, and may use it to say unkind things about us or our child, particularly considering that substance use is a sensitive area. There is no right or wrong way to deal with this. Some of us may find that we can simply ignore such comments and instead focus on those which are loving and supportive. We may also find it helpful to learn about features such as privacy settings, blocking/muting options, as well as being aware of who we can contact if we feel there is an issue that needs to be taken further. The impact on our family and social circle Every death leaves a huge gap in a family. Someone is missing and can never be replaced. Although attitudes are changing, there can still be elements of fear and shame for families bereaved by drug and alcohol use. Close friends and family may feel uncomfortable about the tragedy, and this can lead to isolation. We may come across people (even amongst other bereaved parents) who believe that our grief is less valid, because our child apparently chose not to care about their own life. There can be differences within the immediate family in the way each person reacts to the death. Misunderstandings may arise. The anger that comes with grief can result in family members falling out, sometimes for