The aims of this study were: to identify the therapeutic activities of a psychosocial care center specifically for family members, and to consider whether the care offered provided benefits to the relationship between the family and alcohol users. This was a qualitative research study, and included 15 families of alcohol users from Minas Gerais. The data collection occurred during January and March of 2012. Thematic analysis was used. The analysis identified three themes: 1) relationship: before and after the initiation of treatment in the service; 2) assistance for the family; 3) treatment suggestions. The results showed that the care in the service contributed to improving the family relationship, but families provided some suggestions to improve this care. We concluded that the service was an important provider of social support for improving the family relationship.
Family relations; Mental health services; Alcoholism
