Experts at the Mayo Clinic note that many family members and friends often struggle to understand a loved one's substance abuse or addiction. It can be a complicated and frustrating process of trying to remains supportive while at the same time setting limits and boundaries to keep the problem from overwhelming a friendship or relationship. Experts at the Partnership for a Drug-Free America note that friends and family members typically care deeply and want an individual to stop destructive habits, but they most also accept that they can not control or change the individual who is using or abusing substances.
Step 1
Seek advice and assistance from a counselor or support group such as Al-Anon. The Mayo Clinic notes that friends and family members of people with substance abuse issues often need individual support to cope with the person's drug use. When someone is abusing a substance, the people around him will be concerned. This worry can become unhealthy if an individual does not seek support and guidance.
Step 2
Plan to discuss the issue directly with the individual. The Partnership for a Drug Free America notes that friends and family members should pick a quiet, private time to express their concerns about drug use to the user. This should be a time when the user is sober. This conversation should outline the concerns in a supportive, non-judgmental way. It's critical to offer the person help and empathy.
Step 3
Do research ahead of time, and offer solutions. The Partnership for a Drug-Free America suggests that a friend or family member research local support groups or counseling services. Offering the person concrete ideas about where to seek help is important. It is also helpful to have clear information about drug use and what the doctors and psychologists know about addiction.
Step 4
Be careful not to allow the problem to grow overly distracting or overwhelming. The Mayo Clinic notes that friends, siblings, and family members who are concerned about a loved one's drug use often run the risk of getting overly involved or concerned about the problem. It is important to support the person, but it is also important to practice self-care and remain involved in outside activities and friendships. The person of concern can also be included, but it is important to take space and not spend time with them when they are under the influence.
Step 5
Continue to use support services for friends and family members of addicts. The Mayo Clinic notes that the process of resolving a substance abuse issue can be lengthy. People close to the user should seek support in an effort to maintain a healthy perspective on the situation. Without such support loved ones run the risk of getting overly involved in a behavior they ultimately can not change or control.
