Individuals frequently worry that approaching the addicted person with the issue may prompt him or her to take harsh action. They might act out in front of other family members, leave the house, quit school, use more heavily, try to disguise their issue, or turn on them or other family members in retaliation. Nonetheless, you might discover that the exchange was incredibly fruitful. It’s possible that the person simply isn’t aware of behavioral changes or that substance usage was or is a problem. And if nothing changes, the issues can get so bad that the same negative consequences might happen.
When the person is inebriated or under the influence of drugs, avoid broaching the subject. People who are intoxicated have trouble understanding logic and are more prone to feel impatient, dismissive, angry, and guilty than sober people. Some people struggle with impulse control, and if the matter is brought up when they are impaired, they may behave irrationally or aggressively.
Decide on a time when the two of you can spend more than a short amount of time alone. Your objective is to engage in a two-way dialogue where you may express your concerns and learn about the other person’s perspective on the circumstance. Request a time to chat in the coming days to talk about something on your mind.
Tell your family member or friend that you care about them when you first meet. Make it clear that you wanted to talk to them because you are worried about their welfare. Mention the actions you have seen, mention your concern for the impact that drinking or using drugs is having, define overdose and mention your worry about continued use. Use open-ended inquiries and have a two-way conversation to avoid lecturing or badgering the person.
