What Sunday visits look like

Visits are always arranged directly with the guest and the Sapphire team. Your loved one decides who visits, and the team helps choose a time that fits the program and how they're going. Sunday is often the day that works, because the week's sessions are done and the house is quieter.

Before you come

• Confirm the time with the team, and let them know who is coming, including children.
• Ask what you can bring. A favourite snack, photos or a book are usually welcome. Check first, because some items aren't allowed in the house, for everyone's safety.
• Think about your hopes for the day, and keep them small. A relaxed couple of hours is a good visit.

On the day

Visits usually happen in the shared spaces: the deck, the living room or a walk around the grounds. You might have lunch together, sit in the sun, or meet the horses. Some families find it easier to do something side by side rather than sit and talk face to face.

If your loved one has agreed to a family session, it may be held on the same day with our clinical team, on site or by video. That is the place for the bigger conversations, with support in the room.

Making the time feel good

• Let them lead on how much they share about the program. What's said in therapy stays private.
• Save hard news or old arguments for a family session, if you can.
• Tell them something ordinary from home. Normal life is reassuring.
• Keep the goodbye simple, and say when you will next be in touch.

Afterwards

Visits can stir up feelings on both sides, and that is normal. Be gentle with yourself on the drive home. Family Drug Support is available on 1300 368 186 if you'd like to talk it through, and our page for families explains how your loved one can share updates with you in between.