What is Narateen?

Narateen groups, which are part of the Nar-Anon fellowship, are formed to provide support to teenage family members and friends of addicts. A Narateen group is a safe environment where teenagers can share and work on their recovery.

Through group meetings, young people learn effective ways of coping from each other, while gaining some peace of mind and hope for a better way to live. Members help one another by sharing their experiences, strength, and hope.

To protect everyone's anonymity, we only use first names. The names and stories shared in confidence aren't repeated outside of group meetings. You won't be forced to speak, and you can always ask questions after meetings. We understand how you feel, so know that it's a great relief to learn more effective ways to cope with this disease. And remember, you're no longer alone.

If there isn't a group near you, please visit:

• Virtual Narateen Meeting List

• How to Start a Narateen Group

For Teenagers Affected by Someone Else’s Addiction

If you have found evidence or suspect someone close to you may have a drug problem, we at Narateen know how you feel. We remember how we felt alone, scared, and confused when we discovered a friend or family member who was or still is involved with drugs. We understand as few others can. For a while, some of us ignored our suspicions. We were too afraid to ask questions because of what might happen if we did. As the situation got worse, we became more frantic. Our attempts to help did not seem to make things any better. We grew more upset and desperate.

By coming to Narateen meetings, we learn drug addiction is a disease. It is not our fault our friends or relatives became addicts. We are not responsible for their actions. Addicts need help and so do we. For the addicts seeking help, drug recovery programs are available. However, Narateen is designed for us – teenagers affected by someone else’s addiction.

Weekly Narateen meetings are held regularly.

• Find a Virtual Meeting or an In-Person Meeting:

https://www.nar-anon.org/find-a-narateen-meeting

We encourage you to attend our meetings. As this is an anonymous program, we use our first names only. There are no charges or obligations for you to attend. You will not be forced to speak and you can ask questions after the meeting. We do understand how you feel. It is a great relief to learn there are more effective ways to cope with this disease. We are no longer alone