Resources for Grandparents

Reading a book may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but, The Grandfamily Guidebook, Wisdom, and Support for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren by Andrew Adesman and Christine Adamec offers great information. The authors share what other grandparents have experienced and advice on addressing substance use.

Beyond Addiction by Dr. Jeffrey Foote is another wonderful resource for families. The book contains suggestions on how to talk to your loved one about your concerns and ways to encourage healthier behaviors. Taking care of yourself is also discussed as this journey can be so hard on your well-being.

Personal counseling may be helpful for you and/or your loved one in dealing with the ups and downs that come with substance use. Your insurance company or Psychology Today can offer counselors to work with you – just be sure they have training in addiction.

If you are seeking outpatient or inpatient programs for your child or grandchild this treatment locator offers programs across the country. After identifying good options using the search criteria, you will still have to call facilities to make sure they are a good fit.  And, if your child or grandchild has other mental health issues, be sure any program you select treats both problems in an integrated way.

Allies in Recovery offers some great resources and worksheets as to how to suggest treatment while attending to your own self-care and more.

There are a number of organizations that can provide you with support including:

• Grandfamilies
• Grandfacts
• Temporary assistance for needy families (TANF)
• AL-ANON
• NAR-ANON
• GrandFamilies Guide
• Daily Strength Support Group
• Dual-Recovery Anonymous
• Families Anonymous

Here is a step-by-step guide on how you can help your grandchild. This guide also provides resources to prevent substance use. Reaching out to school teachers for guidance, local support groups, online groups, or community centers are all ways you can help your grandchild. Support groups can vary from after-school programs, to community service opportunities, to involvement in religious organizations.

Calling the Child Protective Services (CPS) hotline at 1-800-800-5556 may be needed if your grandchild is living with a parent who uses substances. We know this can be a really hard call to make. Your grandchild’s health and safety may be at risk and just one phone call can make all the difference. CPS will help you create a report and ensure your grandchild’s safety by offering services and support.

In addition, if you feel your grandchild is in danger from an abusive parent or another person you can reach out to Childhelp for guidance.

It’s important to stay positive and not to get discouraged. Talking to your grandchild about the harms of using substances and the importance of living a healthy life is key. Learn other ways you can communicate with your grandchild in a loving and caring way.