Free Families Anonymous Peer Support — Substance & Behavior, Nationwide
Families Anonymous (FA) is a 12-step fellowship for family members and friends of people with drug, alcohol, or related behavioral problems. Founded in 1971 by parents in California, FA differs from Al-Anon and Nar-Anon in that it explicitly welcomes families dealing with any combination of substance use and related behavioral issues — including addiction layered with mental illness, behavior problems, or process addictions.
What to Expect
Hour-long confidential meetings where members share experience, strength, and hope without giving advice. The program uses the 12 steps adapted for families of people with addiction or behavioral problems. Members work on detaching with love, releasing the obsession with controlling the loved one’s behavior, and rebuilding their own peace and wellbeing.
Meeting Formats
More than 400 weekly meetings throughout the US, plus meetings in Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Panama, Portugal, Russia, Spain, and the UK. Virtual meetings online and by phone. A 24/7 email exchange meeting and phone meetings are also offered for members who prefer not to use video.
Who This Group Is For
Parents, grandparents, siblings, spouses, partners, other family members, and friends of someone with a current, suspected, or former drug or alcohol problem — including situations involving co-occurring mental health issues or behavioral concerns. The relationship and the impact qualify membership, not a specific diagnosis.
Why Peer Support Works
Many families dealing with addiction have tried Al-Anon or Nar-Anon and felt the fit wasn’t quite right — perhaps because their loved one’s situation involves mental illness, behavioral issues, or multiple substances. Families Anonymous offers a slightly broader frame and a fellowship that accommodates that complexity.
How to Join
Walk in to any open meeting — no registration, dues, or intake. Use the meeting locator at familiesanonymous.org/meetings to find in-person, phone, online, or email meetings.