How an adult can help a friend with alcohol or drug problems?

One of the most painful situations in life can occur when a friend or loved one is struggling from a drug or alcohol addiction problem.

The first things that most of us want to do are jump in, offer support and fix everything.   If only it were that simple.  If your friend is walking down this path to destruction, it’s only natural that you want to help, but the first thing to understand is that more than likely you won’t be able to do it alone. Their cycle of drug and/or alcohol addiction is one that spirals out of control.

* Unfortunately the addiction doesn’t only affect the person with the problem, but ultimately those around them.

Your friend will understand and admit that he/she needs help is need it, which is the first key to recovery.

Many addicts find that the deeper they find themselves involved in drugs and alcohol the more strained the communication becomes.   You may find that they are combative, defensive and unwilling to listen.

It’s important to understand that your friend’s drug or alcohol addiction is a problem and the road to recovery is going to be a path they have to choose on their own.   It’s also important to understand that if you decide to broach the subject of your friend’s alcohol or drug addiction with them, that you do so when they are sober.   Trying to approach them when their minds are in an altered state could cause them to become angry and in some cases even violent.

“You can’t fix your friend and make them stop using drugs or alcohol, but what you can do is get together with other friends and family members and plan an intervention. This is usually done with a qualified professional from a treatment facility, and should always be done in an environment that the person knows and feels comfortable with.“

It’s very important to make sure that before you plan an intervention that you have a plan lined up and ready to implement if your friend agrees that they have a problem and are ready to go into treatment.

* It could be the only opportunity that you have !

It’s best to have everything thought out and have a treatment facility that is ready and waiting to accept your friend if they; in fact, agree to treatment.

The intervention should always be positive, explaining that you love and are concerned for the person, but realize they have a problem and explain the effects that the addiction has had on you and other members.  Explain to the person that you know they are a good person and let them know that you’ve arranged help for them.   In the best-case scenario they will understand they need help and admit their problem, which is the first key to recovery.

* * * If they aren’t to that stage yet, don’t give up, and let the person know that help is available whenever they are ready.* * *

One Response to “How an adult can help a friend with alcohol or drug problems?”

1. Drug Rehabilitation within Canada | Answers to Drug Addiction says:

   December 29, 2009 at 3:55 pm

   [...] People who have severe addiction to any kind of drug can decide on for residential treatment and get rid of the drug mess, while people with mild addiction can go in for outpatient drug rehab centers. There are more than fifty five rehabilitation centers available in Canada that serve people with drug rehabilitation and help them to get rid of the addiction. [...]