Substance abuse imposes a severe burden on the individual, his friends, family and society as a whole. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, "estimates of the total overall costs of substance abuse in the United States---including health- and crime-related costs as well as losses in productivity---exceed half a trillion dollars annually." Drug addiction is a disease that affects the brain, rendering the addict powerless to overcome it without help. Fortunately, if you have a friend whom you suspect is using drugs, there are some things you can do to help.
Get Help
Step 1
Get informed advice. Check out Al-Anon or Alateen, which are support groups for friends and family members of alcoholics. A number of groups are listed in the telephone directory and online, making it easy for you to connect with one. If you choose to attend a meeting, you will meet others like yourself who share your feelings and frustrations. Meetings are free and whatever is shared at the meeting remains confidential. You may also want to get informed advice from a counselor, nurse or doctor before talking to your friend.
Step 2
Keep it private. Do not discuss your suspicions with other friends. Doing so will only alienate your friend when she hears about it. Then, when you feel confident enough to approach her, either do so alone, or with another trusted friend. Most of all, do not speak to your friend when she is clearly under the influence or in a group.
Step 3
Express concern rather than criticism. Let your friend know how much he means to you and how you hate to see him ruin his life. Let him know that you are willing to help him get over this habit and you are there for him every step of the way. If you have difficulty expressing your feelings verbally, you can always send him a note.
Step 4
Be prepared for denial or anger. If you did your research beforehand you would expect this, but don't be put off. Many users react in this way when confronted. Tell your friend why you think she has a problem and what you have seen her do when under the influence of drugs. Tell her that you have researched the problem and that she does not have to deal with it alone. Help is available.
Step 5
Offer to help. This may mean going with your friend to speak to his parents, spouse or significant other. You may also wish to accompany him to "open" Narcotics Anonymous or Alcohol Anonymous meetings where friends and family members are welcome. But once you offer, you must follow through, otherwise your friend may think you are not sincere, or he may lack the courage to go it alone.
Tips and Warnings
- Learn the warning signs of drug or alcohol abuse. Don't try to help your friend on your own until you have talked to a trusted individual, such as a counselor. You can't force your friend to get help; you can only encourage. Never accuse your friend of being a drug addict or an alcoholic. If your friend refuses to get help, you may have to speak to his parents or guardian.
