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Information Sheet 1:
When someone has a Drug or Alcohol Problem

If you suspect that a friend or family member has a drug or alcohol problem, here are a few things you can do:

Speak up. Talk to the person about your concerns, and offer your help and support. The earlier they realise there is a problem, the better. Be prepared for excuses and denial of behaviour that has you worried.

Take care of yourself. Don’t get so caught up in someone elseís drug problem that you neglect your own needs. Make sure you have people you can talk to and lean on for support. And stay safe. Don’t put yourself in dangerous situations.

Find information. Local and national organisations can provide written and personal information and support. This information can help more than myths.

Avoid self-blame. You can support a person with a substance abuse problem and encourage treatment, but you can’t force them to change. You can’t control someone else’s decisions. Let the person accept responsibility for his or her actions. This is an essential step along the way to recovery for drug addiction.

What Not To Do

Don’t attempt to punish, threaten, bribe, or preach.

Don’t try to be a martyr. Avoid emotional appeals that may only increase feelings of guilt and the compulsion to use drugs and alcohol.

Don’t cover up or make excuses for the drug abuser, or protect them from the effects of their behaviour.

Don’t take over their responsibilities, leaving them with no sense of importance or dignity.

Try not to get into an argument.

Don’t take drugs with the drug abuser.

Think twice before giving money - it’s not helpful.

Above all, try not to feel guilty or responsible for another’s behaviour.

Adapted from: National Clearinghouse for Alcohol & Drug Information

D&A Information Sheet 1 (PDF format - 105k)