How to Help Friends With a Drug Addiction

Help Your Friend

If you have noticed your friend has become more distant, makes up stories and spends all of his money on drugs or alcohol, it may be time to make it clear that you know what's going on. As a friend, it is your job to make him aware that the behavior is not acceptable or healthy, while still offering endless support throughout his recovery.

Instructions

1. Keep the topic out in the open. If you feel uncomfortable talking to your friend about his or her problem, you're completely normal. It is difficult to discuss what's going on, but the sooner your friend realizes that he has a problem, the sooner the problem can be resolved.

2. Offer your support. Your friend is likely using drugs or alcohol to numb the pain of her emotions. She may act childish or cold towards you and put drugs ahead of your friendship. Don't give up on your friend, and continue supporting her by staying in close contact.

3. Respect your friend's privacy. Don't tell other people about your friend's drug addiction. If you know someone who can help, you may want to get his opinion on the situation. Tell a doctor or teacher, if you want to tell someone, but avoid telling other mutual friends. If your friend finds out, he may shut down and stop confiding in you.

4. Determine if you are an enabler. Addicts often rely on supportive friends and family members to get them drugs, free places to stay and money. If you are helping your friend's addiction in any way, you are an enabler and should stop the enabling behavior.

5. Speak with your friend's family, if you believe they have your friend's best interests at heart. Not all families are healthy enough to support a family member who is in trouble. But if the family is loving and supportive, they will most likely try to set up treatment for your friend.

Tips & Warnings

• There are rehabilitation clinics located all over the country.

• If your friend is suicidal or close to death, take him or her to a hospital as soon as possible.

References

• DrugFree.org: Helping a Friend

Resources

• A guide for teens