Be supportivebut care for yourself, too
Helping someone you know with a drinking problem can be tough.
It can be difficult to know how to help someone with a drinking problem.
But knowing how to talk to someone about their drinking is often a good place to start.
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At a Glance
To help someone stop drinking, focus on being supportive without being judgmental.
Talk to them honestly about your concerns, but don’t be confrontational.
you’re free to also help them find support groups and other sobriety resources.
It’s important to understand that this is not a weakness.
The person with the drinking problem is psychologically and physiologicallyaddicted to alcoholand requires professional help.
In Al-Anon, you learnhow to detachfrom the person’sproblemsnot necessarily to detach from theperson.
How to Talk to Someone About Their Drinking
This is a difficult conversation.
Plan what you’re going to say ahead of time.
Wait until your loved one is sober and relatively emotionally stable.
During this first discussion, it’s important to show how much you care about your loved one.
Let your family member know you want to support them in stopping.
Denial and pushback are common.
After the first attempt, the next step you might take is anintervention.
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They have to make that decision themselves.
You cannot make them change.
The only person you control in this life is you.
And don’t forget to practice self-careyour physical and mental health matter, too.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Offer to help them talk to a doctor or find a support group.
You might also help by suggesting activities that don’t involve drinking.
Encourage them to talk to a professional about their drinking.
Other support groups include Alateen, NAMI Family Support Groups, and SMART Recovery Family & Friends.
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Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.What is Substance Abuse Treatment?
A Booklet for Families.
