When the Hurt Isn’t Yours

—but It Still Hurts: Finding Hope in Al Anon, NAR-Anon and Beyond

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

Addiction doesn’t just harm the one caught in its grip—it ripples outward. If you’ve ever loved someone struggling with addiction, you already know this. The sleepless nights. The wondering where they are, what they’re doing, or if today will be the day they finally choose healing. Maybe you’ve pleaded, reasoned, even tried to “fix” it for them—only to watch hope slip through your hands like sand.

This is for you.

This is for the weary mother who keeps her phone on loud 24/7.

The spouse who’s afraid to hope again.

The friend who wonders, Am I enabling or helping?

The sister who keeps giving second chances but feels herself breaking inside.

You’re not alone. You’re not crazy. And you don’t have to carry this alone anymore.

What is Al‑Anon, Nar-Anon and beyond (and Why Might It Help You)?

Al‑Anon (and similar groups like Nar‑Anon) are 12-step support communities created not for the addict, but for the people who love them. These groups gather in church basements, community centers, and living rooms across the country—filled with people who understand the unique heartbreak of loving someone in addiction.

They’re not about blame. They’re not about judgment.

They’re about healing—for you.

Al‑Anon teaches that while you can’t control the choices of the addict, you can learn how to take care of your own heart, mind, and spirit. You can learn to set healthy boundaries. You can stop walking on eggshells. You can even smile again. Yes, you’re allowed to heal, even if the person you love hasn’t chosen recovery yet.

Faith and 12-Step Support—Together, Not Apart

At Intentional Servant, we believe deeply in the power of faith and the practical support of 12-step wisdom. Jesus doesn’t just heal individuals—He restores families. But sometimes, that healing comes through surrender, not control. Through letting go, not holding tighter.

Psalm 34:18 reminds us that God is close to the brokenhearted. Not just the addicted—but the affected.

You can bring your pain to Him.

You can trust Him with the one you love.

And while you wait, you can surround yourself with people who understand the ache—and walk with you through it.

You’re Not Alone—and You Don’t Have to Stay Silent

If this sounds like your story, please know: seeking help for yourself is not selfish. It’s wise. It’s holy. It’s a step toward freedom. Al‑Anon, Celebrate Recovery’s family groups, and church-based support ministries exist for this very reason.

And we’re here, too.

Whether you need someone to pray with, help you find a group, or just listen—Intentional Servant is a space where your pain is seen, and your hope is honored.

Next Steps:

• Visit https://al-anon.org to find a meeting near you.

• Reach out to us via IntentionalServant.org for prayer and guidance.

• Subscribe to our podcast From Chains to Change—upcoming episodes will feature stories from family members who’ve walked this road too.

Drop a 🙌 or 💛 in the comments if this hit home for you. You’re not alone. And there’s hope.