Responses to someone using and When someone asks for help
**Should the person struggling show signs of contemplating suicide (with a time frame, means and motive) please contact the national suicide Hotline 800-273-8255. https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
Below are some of the signs and symptoms that an addiction is forming, has formed or that a person is loosing hope. When craving and addiction occurs, chemically the brain and parts of the body have become imbalanced. This person now is or has become dependent on a substance or behavior to feel better about themselves, to ease physical or mental pain or tune out to forget their struggles. These symptoms and experiences may also vary depending on family history, genetics, past abuse or trauma, the type of substance, and other personal or environmental circumstances. When speaking with the person who is misusing, getting angry, in most cases, will make things worse for you and the person struggling with addiction. An individual needs to be ready to change.
Responding to someone using drugs or asking for help, requires sensitivity, empathy, and a non-judgmental approach. Here are some guidelines for each scenario:
Responding to Someone Using Drugs
- Stay Calm and Non-Judgmental: Approach the situation with empathy. Avoid expressing anger, disappointment, or judgment.
Example: “I’m here for you, and I want to understand what you’re going through.”
- Express Concern for Their Well-being: Focus on their health and safety rather than the drug use itself.
Example: “I’m really worried about you. How are you feeling?”
- Offer Support: Let them know you’re there to support them, not to lecture or criticize.
Example: “If you ever need to talk or need help, I’m here for you.”
- Encourage Professional Help: Suggest they talk to a professional who can provide the right support.
Example: “Have you thought about talking to a counselor or a doctor? They might be able to help.”
- Set Boundaries: If their drug use affects you personally, it’s okay to set boundaries.
Example: “I care about you, but I can’t be around when you’re using.”
Responding to Someone Asking for Help
- Listen Actively: Give them your full attention and listen without interrupting.
Example: “I’m here to listen. Please tell me what’s going on.”
- Acknowledge Their Courage: Recognize the strength it takes to ask for help.
Example: “It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help. I’m really proud of you.”
- Ask How You Can Help: Sometimes, people know exactly what they need; other times, they might need guidance.
Example: “How can I best support you right now?”
- Provide Resources: Offer information on available resources, such as hotlines, support groups, or professional services.
Example: “There are some great resources that might help, like [specific hotline or service].”
- Follow Up: Check in with them later to see how they’re doing and if they still need support.
Example: “I wanted to see how you’re doing and if there’s anything else I can do to help.”
- Encourage Professional Help if Necessary: If their situation seems serious, gently encourage seeking professional assistance.
Example: “Have you thought about talking to a therapist or counselor? They can offer a lot of support.”
General Tips
- Maintain Confidentiality: Respect their privacy and keep the conversation confidential unless they’re in immediate danger.
- Be Patient: Change and recovery take time. Be patient and supportive throughout their journey.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about drug use and mental health to better understand what they might be experiencing.
Resources for supporting the person or caretaker of the abuser(s) include Al-anon for the adult or Alateen for youth. https://al-anon.org/
