If you suspect that a friend or family member has a drug problem, here are a 5 things you can do:
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Consult a addiction professional
You can consult an MD or look online for referrals. When talking with a specialist, it is helpful to let them know the kind of drugs your loved one is taking, the quantity, a list of doctors they are seeing, and a brief life history.
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Don’t cover up for the person with an addiction
While it may be difficult to confront your loved one and the reaction may not be present, it is important not to cover for them. This may appear as though you are protecting them from negative consequences, but in fact you will become a barrier for drug abuser to receive help.
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Avoid self-blame
You can support a person with a drug problem and encourage treatment, but you cannot force them to change overnight.
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Approach your loved on with care
It may be helpful to have brochures about recovery. Think about what you are going to tell them. It is important to voice your care for them first, bring up a specific drug related incident that worried, offer to make the next step (make an appointment), and then listen to their response.
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Take care of yourself
In order to help others, you must help yourself. Make sure you have support and people you can lean on.
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