Families often feel angry, ashamed and helpless. The good news is that families have real influence — and a method called CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training) helps many families bring a loved one into treatment.
What helps
- Talk when the person is sober, calmly and briefly
- Notice and appreciate sober days
- Let natural consequences happen instead of covering up
- Suggest treatment at a calm moment, with a ready plan
- Look after your own health — consult for yourself if needed
What usually backfires
- Arguing while the person is intoxicated
- Giving money that ends up buying the substance
- Secretly mixing medicines in food
- Labelling and public shaming
Families can book a consultation even if the patient is not ready. Together we can plan the next step safely.
Frequently asked questions
Should we force our relative into a rehab centre?
Force and locking people up are unsafe and often illegal. Start with a medical consultation; if admission is needed, choose a licensed facility.
Can the family consult without the patient?
Yes. Families can get guidance on how to talk, what to avoid and how to plan treatment.
Medical references
Guidelines and official sources used for this article.
- International Standards for the Treatment of Drug Use Disorders (revised edition). UNODC & World Health Organization, 2020.
- mhGAP Intervention Guide for mental, neurological and substance use disorders in non-specialized health settings, version 2.0. World Health Organization, 2016.
- Magnitude of Substance Use in India. Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment and NDDTC, AIIMS New Delhi, 2019.
- Author
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
- Medical reviewer
- Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MD Psychiatry
- Last reviewed
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.
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