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Alcohol supports and services for families

Life can be extremely difficult if someone close to you is drinking too much.

It can help to know you are not alone. If you are affected by someone's drinking, there are supports and services available for you. These include 1-to-1 support sessions and group supports.

Most people in support groups have been in a similar situation to you. They understand what you are going through. It can help to talk and get support to cope.

Signs of alcohol dependence

HSE Alcohol Helpline

Call our helpline to talk through someone's alcohol use and get information on supports near you.

Freephone: 1800 459 459
Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5.30pm
Email: helpline@hse.ie

Al-Anon Family Groups

Al-Anon provides help and friendship for families and friends of someone with harmful alcohol use.

This is an anonymous programme to help you cope, whether the person is still drinking or not.

Contact the Al-Anon confidential helpline.

Phone: 01 873 2699
Every day, 10am to 10pm
Email: helpline@al-anonuk.org.uk

Find an Al Anon meeting

The Rise Foundation

The Rise Foundation offers support programmes and 1-to-1 counselling to family members affected by addictive behaviour.

Phone: 01 764 5131
Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 5:30pm
Email: support@therisefoundation.ie
Website: therisefoundation.ie

Women’s Aid

Alcohol increases the risk of domestic violence. To talk things through or get confidential support, contact Women's Aid domestic violence helpline.

Freephone: 1800 341 900
24 hours every day
Website: womensaid.ie

Men's Aid Ireland

Phone: 01 554 3811
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Website: mensaid.ie

Children at risk

If you are concerned about the safety or welfare of a child, contact Tusla (the Child and Family Agency).

Phone: 01 635 2854
Email: info@tusla.ie
Website: tusla.ie

Emergency action required: Call 112 or 999 if:

  • someone is in immediate danger and needs an emergency service

Page last reviewed: 12 August 2025
Next review due: 12 August 2028