Family experiences in the context of methamphetamine use: a narrative systematic review by family role

Introduction There is growing interest in how a loved one’s methamphetamine use can contribute to family members’ diminished emotional and social well-being. However, previous reviews explore broader substance use, rather than methamphetamine specifically, and rarely distinguish findings by family role. We synthesized the literature describing the experiences of family members of people who use methamphetamine according to family role.Methods We searched databases for peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2000 and 2023. Data on family relationships and functioning, family members’ well-being, and sources of support from the perspective of family members were narratively synthesized.Results Eighteen qualitative (k = 9), quantitative (k = 4) and mixed-methods (k = 5) studies were included. Children (k = 7), all minors involved with protective services, described turbulent and often violent home lives. Social support, especially from grandparents, helped children cope. Parents (k = 2) expressed concerns for children’s safety, financial issues, and uncertainty in addressing the methamphetamine use. Data on partners (k = 2) focused on intimate partner violence or women seeking advice on supporting male partners. One sibling described distancing themselves from their family. The perspectives of other family members were absent from the literature.Discussion We synthesized the distinct experiences of family members of people who use methamphetamine from various roles. We found widespread disruption to family functioning, including perceived relationship loss, violence, unpredictability, and uncertainty, that reduced families’ emotional well-being. A deeper understanding of the perspectives of other family members, including siblings and children outside of protective services, is required to develop appropriately tailored supports for families of people who use methamphetamine.