Family Support
Compassionate Guidance for Families Affected by Addiction and Eating Disorders.
We support families with the same compassion, clarity, and honesty that we offer our clients.
When someone you love is struggling with addiction or an eating disorder, it affects every part of your life. You may feel frightened, exhausted, confused, or unsure what to do next. You may be trying to hold everything together while watching the person you care about slowly fall apart.
You’re not alone — and you’re not expected to manage this on your own.
At Open Minds Rehab, we support families with the same compassion, clarity, and honesty that we offer our clients. Our team includes experienced addiction counsellors who understand recovery personally, either through their own journey or through supporting a close family member. We know what it feels like to love someone who is struggling.
We’re here to help you find clarity, stability, and a way forward.
How we support Families
- Clear, Honest Guidance
Addiction and eating disorders can be confusing and unpredictable. We help you understand:
- what your loved one is experiencing
- why certain behaviours happen
- what helps — and what unintentionally harms
- how to set healthy boundaries
- how to protect your own wellbeing
We explain things in a way that makes sense, without judgement or blame.
- Family Therapy Sessions
Families often carry:
- fear
- frustration
- guilt
- resentment
- confusion
- grief
- hope
Family therapy provides a safe space to talk openly, rebuild communication, and understand each other’s experiences. It’s not about blame — it’s about healing.
- Support During Admission
The admission process can feel overwhelming for families. We guide you through:
- what to expect
- how to prepare
- how to support your loved one
- our phone and visiting policy
You’ll always know what’s happening and why.
- Regular Updates (With Consent)
With your loved one’s permission, we can provide updates during their stay.
This helps reduce anxiety and keeps you connected to their progress.
- Education About Addiction & Eating Disorders
We help families understand:
- the disease‑model of addiction
- the emotional and psychological patterns behind eating disorders
- why recovery requires structure and boundaries
- how shame and secrecy fuel the cycle
- how to support long‑term change
Knowledge reduces fear — and gives you back a sense of control.
- Support for You, Not Just the Client
Families often put themselves last.
We encourage you to:
- look after your own wellbeing
- set boundaries without guilt
- understand your role in recovery
- release responsibility for things you cannot control
You deserve support too.
You’re not alone – we’re here for you too
Whether you’re a parent, partner, sibling, or friend, you deserve clarity, support, and a safe place to talk.
Our team understands recovery personally and professionally — and we’re here to walk alongside you.
What families Tell Us
“I finally understand what’s been happening. I wish I’d known this years ago.”
“I felt heard for the first time.”
“Knowing the team had lived experience made me feel safe.”
“I stopped blaming myself.”
Our Phone & Visiting Policy
To protect your loved one’s focus and emotional stability:
- No phone calls during the first week
- After week one: supervised 10‑minute calls each evening
- Visiting is available by arrangement after the initial settling‑in period
This structure helps your loved one settle, regulate, and engage fully in treatment.
When you’re Worried about someone you love.
You may be noticing:
- changes in behaviour
- secrecy or withdrawal
- mood swings
- financial issues
- physical symptoms
- emotional instability
- eating changes
- substance use increasing
- a sense that “something isn’t right”
Trust your instincts.
You don’t need proof to reach out — just concern.
We’ll help you understand what’s happening and what to do next.
If your loved one isn’t ready for Treatment
This is incredibly common… We can help you:
- communicate in a way that reduces defensiveness
- set boundaries that protect your wellbeing
- avoid enabling behaviours
- stay connected without being pulled into chaos
- prepare for when they are ready
You don’t have to wait for a crisis to get support.
Call us today on 01978 312 120