Social drinking can sometimes pass the point from responsible fun to alcohol abuse. If you suddenly find your friend to be constantly drunk, you may have an alcoholic friend on your hands, warns Columbia University's health services. The university advises trying to help your friend immediately. A drinking problem is dangerous not only to the drinker, but the aggression, poor judgment and other behaviors associated with alcohol abuse can also affect you if you're near your friend while he is drinking.
Step 1
Determine if your friend has a drinking problem. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says that common signs of alcohol dependency in a friend include getting drunk regularly, constantly forgetting what occurred during an evening of drinking, lying about alcohol usage, and drinking and driving.
Step 2
Wait until your friend is sober and in a comfortable, relaxed environment, according to Princeton University's health services. If needed, wait until you know she has no other commitments and can give you her full attention.
Step 3
Bring up the topic of drinking. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism suggests being specific, citing recent examples where your friend has consumed too much alcohol. Emphasize your love and concern for your friend and always use a calm, non-judgmental tone during the conversation.
Step 4
Tell your friend what will happen if he doesn't seek help. For example, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says you can tell your friend you may have to stop hanging out with him. Emphasize that these aren't punishments for your friend, but are ways for you to protect yourself from the dangerous consequences of alcohol abuse.
Step 5
Provide your friend with the contact information for local resources, support groups and treatment centers that can help her overcome the problem. The U.S. Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration operates a 24-hour helpline, reached by dialing 800-662-4357, that can provide a list of local help.
Step 6
Expect denial and resistance, warns the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. You may need to have multiple conversations with your friend, or enlist the help of other friends and family members who can repeatedly confront your friend about his problem.
