If you have a friend that is an alcoholic or is using drugs, you may be asking yourself, what do I do? While there is no black-and-white answer for what to do when your friend is using drugs, we hope to provide a little insight regarding how to help.
Keep in mind that every drug rehabilitation facility and recovery program works differently, so the best course of action will be personalised to your friend’s specific needs and situation. The following ten steps can help you get started down the right path towards helping your friend who is struggling with drug addiction.
1) Understand The Problem
There are so many factors that can cause an individual to fall into drug use. From peer pressure, financial problems, or personal issues and insecurities, all of these areas can drive a person into using drugs. It’s important that you understand what is driving your friend’s decision to use drugs so you can understand how best to help them out of their situation.
2) Look For Warning Signs
If you have a friend who is struggling with drugs, you may be wondering how to find out whether or not they’re using. If you’re worried about your friend, take some time to think about what type of behaviours are typical for them and then look for warning signs of substance abuse. For example, if your friend is usually fun-loving and outgoing but they’ve been coming across as withdrawn and irritable lately, maybe it’s time to pay attention.
3) Talk About Your Concerns
This can be one of the hardest steps, but it’s also crucial in helping your friend. If you notice a change in someone’s behaviour or physical appearance, don’t ignore your gut. Even if they seem like they are starting to use drugs frequently or excessively, you may want to avoid labelling them as addicted. Instead, share your concern and talk about what you have noticed.
4) Listen Instead Of Judging
Although it may be difficult, one of the best ways you can help your friend who is struggling with drug addiction is to just listen. Don’t try and make decisions for them or offer solutions—just show them you care and understand how hard their situation must be.
5) Be prepared for denial
Although it’s clear that a loved one is struggling, it’s also very difficult for them to admit they have a problem. Don’t be thrown off guard if your friend doesn’t want help; try not to take it personally, and respect their autonomy. Offer help in a kind and supportive way—don’t be pushy. Encourage them to seek out professional help from a drug rehab centre. If you fear for your friend’s safety, contact local authorities immediately.
6) Offer To Go With Them To Treatment
If you know someone who has a drug problem, it’s important that you offer to help them get into treatment. Showing your friend that you care enough about them can open up communication on their part, making it easier for them to seek help. It’s not easy stepping in and confronting someone about drug use or addiction; most people would rather avoid it and hope that everything works out fine.
7) Educate Yourself on Substance Abuse
Learning more about substance abuse—what it is, what causes it, and what types of treatment are available—is a great first step for helping your friend who is struggling. This knowledge will not only help you be prepared for potential scenarios that may arise if your friend continues using drugs, but also can serve as an open door for communication between you and your friend.
8) Know What Drug Rehab Programs Are Available In Your Area
One of your first steps when helping a friend who is using drugs is to figure out what drug and alcohol rehab programs are available near conwy. If you know they will be living at home while getting clean, look for outpatient or transitional housing options that can get them started on their recovery journey without disrupting their daily life too much.
9) Be Patient
As cliche as it sounds, you have to be patient. Drug addicts can’t help themselves, and you shouldn’t expect them to. If you rush them or make them feel like they are being judged, they may push you away from trying to get better. Patience is crucial because it allows your friend time for self-reflection and a genuine desire for change.
10) Trust The Process
You may be tempted to walk away from your friend, but rest assured—it’s not that easy. The truth is that most drugs are highly addictive and extremely difficult to quit without medical intervention. If you want your friend to achieve long-term sobriety, it’s important for you as a friend or family member to trust that process.
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