Characteristics of Brazilian women affected by a substance misusing relative.

As in many other health disorders, people who misuse substances tend to be assisted by female caregivers. Despite this, little is known about the characteristics of women affected by a substance misusing relative (SMR). Data from 2541 Brazilian female affected family members (AFM) were analyzed.

Family members affected by a relative's substance misuse looking for social support: who are they?

Background: This study proposes to describe family members in the city of Sao Paulo who are seeking support in mutual self-help groups to deal with a substance misusing relative.

Method: Five hundred participants (one participant per family) completed a structured questionnaire collecting socio-demographic information, length of time taken to seek help, and where they sought help. Participants were recruited from the mutual self-help group 'Amor Exigente' in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil.