If you suspect someone you know and/or love could be using drugs but you are not sure how to approach it or what to do here are a few tips:
1. If you are not aware of how extensive the drug use is ask questions. Make sure the way you ask out of genuine concern rather than as an accusation.
2. Discuss the problems or signs with a professional and get their expert opinion on the best way you can help this person with their drug or alcohol addiction.
3. Educate yourself on the specifics of the type of substance they are addicted to. You can go to the library or online and search for warning signs of _, effects of _, and/or statistics on _.
4. Find out what kind of help is available in your community ie. drug treatment centers, group support meetings, and/or counselling centers.
5. Be sure to show your love and support no matter how angry you may be. It's ok to be angry or hurt just express it in a way that will help and not aggravate the situation.
6. Understand that even if this person is willing to enter a drug rehab for a period of time the addiction will not just disappear. They will have to continue to fight the addiction and you will need to continue your support.
7. Drug abuse affects millions. Allow yourself to be constantly reminded that there are many people just like you and just like the person who has become addicted. You would be hard pressed to find someone in a position to judge you because most everyone has a friend, family member, or loved one who is fighting addiction.
8. If you do not feel like you are in a position to help this person any longer be willing to let them get the outside help and support they need. Sometimes this is what they need to succeed.
9. Be sure to recognize every stepping stone they reach in their goals to fight addiction. Give praise and celebration to even the baby steps, addiction can be a long and difficult road and every step in the right direction counts. Local recovery support groups are often helpful.
10. If the person addicted to drugs or alcohol is making poor choices which have consequences do not try to cover them up or make excuses for them. They need to see what their choices are doing, how they affect other people, and pay the price for those choices.
11. Be willing to LISTEN. Do not assume you know what this person is thinking, feeling, or going through. The only way you can know this is to listen. Listening can also help in drug abuse prevention.
12. Always let this person know you have not given up on them. Whether you choose be a part of the healing process or not make it clear you are not giving up on them.
13. Understand there may be relapses, not everyone has them but a great percentage do. It is not the end of the world, they can make it back to sobriety. That is not to say you need to support the behavior, just the person.
Drug and alcohol abuse can create very serious problems and sometimes deadly consequences. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction it is important that you get help immediately. I hope these tips can help in addressing the problem and ultimately in getting help.
Good Luck! Stay Strong!
