Referrals offered to affected family members: a cross-sectional analysis of a substance use program register

Background: Demand is growing for support services for affected family members (AFM) of relatives with a substance use disorder or problematic substance use. This study examined referral patterns and factors influencing referral types of AFM who sought support through the program 'Recomeço Família' in São Paulo, Brazil. Methods: A cross-sectional retrospective analysis of 5,192 records of family members registered in the program between 2014 and 2018. Referrals made by health professionals to external services were assessed and factors associated with referral types were assessed through univariate binary logistic regressions. Results: Most of the referrals were to individual therapies (counseling/psychotherapy)(64.30%), followed by family support groups (21.15%) and psychoeducational programs (14.55%). Referral destinations varied by AFM and their relative characteristics, including gender, age, kinship, levels of emotional distress, help-seeking history and substance type. Conclusion: The findings highlight factors that may influence referral decisions and underscore the need for further investigation into whether these referrals effectively address the specific needs of AFM.