The Steps to Take When Someone You Care About Has a Drug Addiction

If someone you care about is struggling with drug addiction, the first thing to realize is that there is always help that you can turn to. One of the most difficult things for people that see their friends or family go through life battling a drug addiction is that they feel burdened by having to be responsible for that person. The truth is that what you do can have a significant impact on the person struggling with addiction, but it is certainly not a substitute for specialized care in a professional rehabilitation facility.

Remember Who is Responsible

While for some people it may seem anti-motivational, you have to remember that it is not your decision whether the person you care about stops abusing drugs or not. Only that person has the power to do that. The truth is that you can do everything humanly possible, but the final step is theirs and theirs alone to take. Remember this, so you do not become overburdened by the idea that you have to take that final step for them.

Important Steps to Remember

1. Be sure to do your research beforehand – Oftentimes people recognize that there is a problem with addiction and they head straight to the person to 'confront' them. Even if the person immediately saw the light, agreed that they had a problem with drug abuse, and wanted help, what can you offer them without having an option available? Look into what drug rehabilitation programs are available and what has been proven successful for others in the past before you speak to the person.
2. Do not become confrontational – Watching someone struggle with addiction may not only be heartbreaking, it can also be extremely frustrating. Especially if you care about the person; chances are that you want to shake them and ask them what the heck they think they are doing. It is important to remember that for many people struggling with addiction, they already feel a certain sense of embarrassment or shame when it comes to drugs. This is not the time to be judgmental or let them know why they are horrible people. Be supportive, listen to what they have to say but realize that you need to have a sense of resolve in your voice.
3. Make it about them as well as you – Even though it may be frustrating, it is important that you listen to feedback from the person that is struggling with the addiction. This is not a one-sided conversation; remember that the only person that can ultimately make the decision to seek treatment is the person you are talking to. Offer positive change and alternatives to their current lifestyle while listening to what they have to say.
4. Get them to treatment as soon as possible – If you manage to convince someone to seek treatment, you have to strike while the iron is hot. This is another important reason that you have to do your research beforehand. Make sure that you keep the positive momentum going by acting on the agreement to enter treatment.

You Do Have to Do That Alone

It can be very intimidating to take that first step towards talking to someone about his or her addiction; just remember that help is available. Even if you want to talk to someone before you speak to the addict just to see whether you are making the right choice, professionals are a simple phone call away.

Thomas Littelton is a drug and alcohol addiction counselor specializing in alternative, non-faith based rehab treatment programs for those looking for AA alternatives, and helping those understand that there are successful drug rehabilitation options.