I'm sorry you and your family are going through this. I'm finding that total release of info is helping me. Not hiding the addiction has opened up so many other people to telling me about their experiences or "confessing" about addicts in their lives. I was so embarrassed not too long ago and didn't want to tell anyone. Once I did and getting the reactions that I did, it was very freeing. I hope that you can tell your family not only to help them but maybe make you feel freer too. I hope your niece finds recovery and remains healthy and happy.