HEALTH-FITNESS
ThedaCare counselor offers tips for helping a loved one with substance use
ThedaCare offers walk-in substance use intake services in Neenah and a free Menasha support group for adult family members
Nida TazeenOshkosh Northwestern
Aug. 26, 2026, 4:11 a.m. CT
- Family members of those with substance use disorder are encouraged to seek education and support.
- Conversations about substance use should be centered on care and concern rather than blame.
- Setting clear boundaries and prioritizing self-care is essential for loved ones’ well-being.
- ThedaCare Behavioral Health offers treatment services and a free support group for families.
OSHKOSH – Family members and friends of people living with substance use disorder may struggle to balance support, concern and self-preservation as they navigate the impact of a loved one’s drug or alcohol use
ThedaCare Behavioral Health is encouraging loved ones to seek education, establish healthy boundaries and access support re
“Substance use can affect the entire family with everyone experiencing the traumatic impact,” said Caitlin Reider, a substance use disorder counselor with ThedaCare Behavioral Health. “Family members deserve education and support, too.”
People who are concerned about a loved one’s substance use can start with a conversation centered on care rather than blame, Reider said
“You might notice a loved one is using a substance in a way that concerns you. You can open the conversation by saying, ‘I have concerns about your substance use and this is what I’m noticing,’” she said. “Or, ‘I’m worried about you. How can I support you?’ Provide them with caring feedback and support and avoid accusing the individual.”
ThedaCare said its substance use disorder treatment program uses a flexible, goal-oriented approach tailored to individual needs
If someone expresses interest in treatment, substance use disorder intake services are available without an appointment through ThedaCare Behavioral Health Walk-in Care-Neenah. Additional treatment sessions are held at ThedaCare Behavioral Health-Menasha. Services also are offered in Berlin, Oshkosh, Shawano and Waupaca
For more information about counselor Caitlin Reider, visit directory.thedacare.org. Information about treatment services is available at thedacare.org
Setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care
Reider said loved ones should recognize that they cannot control another person’s behavior and may need to establish clear boundaries to protect their own well-being
“Boundaries are something we set for ourselves. We can’t force someone else to change their behaviors,” she said. “For example, we can set the boundary that ‘if you yell at me while you’ve been drinking, I am not going to talk to you.’”
She recommends using statements that focus on personal choices and limits
“When setting boundaries, use I statements, such as, ‘I won’t ride in a car with you if you’ve been drinking,’” Reider said. “Once you set those expectations, make sure you adhere to them. Think about how to tend to yourself when something happens. Self-care is essential.”
Examples of self-care activities cited in the announcement include spending time with pets, walking, practicing yoga, meditating, attending religious services and connecting with friends
Recovery can involve setbacks and progress may not occur in a straight line, according to the announcement. Reider encouraged loved ones to remain patient throughout the process
“It’s important to try to have patience,” she said
Support group offers connection for families
ThedaCare Behavioral Health also hosts a free drop-in support group for adult family members and loved ones of people coping with substance use disorders
The group meets from 5 to 6 p.m. in the Community Room at ThedaCare Behavioral Health-Menasha. A counselor facilitates discussions on topics such as self-care, setting boundaries and the healing process, according to the announcement
Participants may attend as often as they choose. People as young as 14 may participate when accompanied by an adult
“For many, substance use disorder is a heartbreaking disease,” Reider said. “It can alter a person’s morals and ethics and the people they love the most are often the ones who are the most affected.”
This story was produced by reporter Nida Tazeen,NTazeen@usatodayco.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the review, editing and publishing process. Learn more atcm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct
