Talk to us on their behalf
Many first conversations are with worried parents, partners and friends. We'll help you understand the options and how to approach your loved one.
For families
When someone you love is struggling
Watching a family member or friend battle alcohol, drugs or stress is painful. You don't have to carry it alone — and you can make a real difference.
You matter too
Addiction affects the whole family
Our founder learned this growing up alongside her father's alcoholism. Worry, broken trust, arguments, financial strain and exhaustion are common in families living with addiction — and they are not your fault.
That is why Hephzibah's foundation is the family unit. When families are supported and involved, the person in treatment has something strong to return to.
Recovery is supported through relationships and social networks — SAMHSA.
Warning signs in a loved one
- Sudden changes in mood, friends, sleep or appetite
- Falling behind at school or work, or losing interest in hobbies
- Secretive behaviour, missing money or possessions
- Smelling of alcohol, or unexplained drowsiness or agitation
- Withdrawing from family time
- Defensiveness or anger when alcohol or drugs are mentioned
Some of these can also be signs of stress, depression or other difficulties. If you notice several, it's worth talking to someone.
Starting the conversation
How to talk to someone you're worried about
There's no perfect script — but a calm, caring approach makes it more likely they'll listen.
✓ Try to
- Choose a calm, private moment when they are sober
- Use “I” statements: “I've been worried about you because…”
- Describe specific things you've seen, without labels
- Listen more than you speak
- Tell them you love them and want to help
- Have information ready — like our number — for when they're ready
✕ Try to avoid
- Confronting them while they're drunk or high
- Name-calling, shaming or lecturing
- Threats you won't follow through on
- Covering up or making excuses for their behaviour
- Expecting one talk to fix everything
- Blaming yourself for their choices
How we help families
You can reach out first
Family involvement in treatment
Loved ones are part of the process, so the whole household can learn, heal and prepare for life after treatment.
Support for young people
If your child is 15 or older and struggling with stress, alcohol or drugs, we can help — early support makes a difference.
Look after yourself
You can't pour from an empty cup
Caring for someone with an addiction is exhausting. Make time for rest, keep up your own friendships, set healthy boundaries, and speak to someone about how you are feeling.
LifeLine/ChildLine Namibia offers free, confidential counselling on toll-free 116 or 106.
Addiction never affects just one person. When a family heals together, recovery has somewhere to grow.
Ready to talk? We're here 24/7.
One conversation can change the direction of a life. Reach out confidentially — for yourself or someone you love.