In 2007, nearly 24,000 people in the United States succumbed to alcohol-related health problems, and that figure doesn't include deaths related to accidents or homicides, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When you have a loved one who has a drinking problem, it can be hurtful and frightening. The idea of confronting your loved one to talk about alcohol dependency may seem less than desirable, but it will show your loved one that you care and help him see that his alcohol dependency is a serious and potentially deadly problem.
Step 1
Confront your loved one at the right time. As the Canyon Rehabilitation Center in Malibu, California, notes, it's always better to confront your loved one sooner than later. Your loved one's drinking problem could be causing daily liver damage and poor choices, so don't wait. As soon as you realize that there's a problem, spring into action to let your loved one know that you're concerned.
Step 2
Gather together a group of friends that are also concerned with your loved one's alcohol dependency. Your loved one may find it easy to brush off your concern as an individual, but being confronted by a bevy of friends and family members may show her that her problem has affected more than just you. That realization may make her more willing to listen and accept the fact that she has a problem.
Step 3
Coach the other members of your family as to what they should say to your loved one about his dependency on alcohol. They may be nervous at first or reluctant to participate. Not everyone in the group has to say something about addiction. You could have certain family members simply express love, appreciation and support if they don't want to take part in the confrontation.
Step 4
Ask your loved one to the confrontation site without letting on that other members of the family are present or that you want to talk about something serious, suggests MayoClinic.com. If you mention that you want to talk, your loved one may catch on and discover the real purpose for the meeting and avoid seeing you. Use a family party or get together as a way to confront your loved one.
Step 5
Explain the consequences of your loved one's alcohol dependency when she arrives at the confrontation or intervention, suggests ARISE Intervention. Sit her down and talk about her dependency on alcohol, how it makes you feel and what could happen to her. Cite health reasons and statistics, but remember to speak from the heart; talk about your relationship and how much you miss seeing your loved one without the crutch of alcohol.
Step 6
Seek professional help if your loved one doesn't receive the confrontation well. The confrontation will likely make your loved one feel uncomfortable and even alienated, but the goal is to make him realize he has a problem. If he becomes belligerent, abusive, physical or irate, it's time to see a professional or look for rehabilitation options. Some rehabilitation centers will send therapists to stage interventions and help your loved one get the help that he needs.
