Watching someone close to you or someone that you love suffer from an addiction to alcohol can be very hard. You might wonder if there is anything that you could do to make the situation better. But the truth is, if the person doesn’t want to change, or fails to realise there is a problem, then they might not accept your help.
The first thing you might think of is suggesting alcohol rehab, but there are a few other things you should do beforehand. You should start with just talking to them about the problem. Our step by step guide explains which way is best to approach someone suffering from alcoholism.
How To Approach Someone with an Alcohol Addiction
- Learn about alcohol addiction.
Before you do anything else you should educate yourself on alcohol addiction, and figure out if addiction is what your loved one is subject to. Addiction is more than just taking drinking too far every so often. Alcohol is commonly used as a coping mechanism, or habit in social situations, but this isn’t always addiction. People who suffer never drink in moderation, so you should learn the telltale signs if you are thinking of suggesting rehab.
- Practice what you are going to say.
Make sure that you let the person know that you care about them and that you are always there if they need you. Speak positively and avoid any negative comments as they could get defensive or close off.
Using statements including ‘I’ reduces any accusation in the conversation and opens you up to be active in the conversation. You could talk about when alcohol caused an undesired situation like unjust behaviour or money-related issues.
Make sure that you are prepared for every outcome and response so that you don’t say anything you will regret in the moment.
- Choose the best time and place to talk.
Think about the best situation to be in when you bring the topic up. You don’t want to be around lots of distractions or other people who might hear this private conversation. Make sure that the person you are speaking to isn’t already upset about anything else, and they need to be sober.
Listen to them, treat them with compassion, and don’t take bad responses personally.
- Offer your help and support.
Realise that there is no way you can force them to change or accept any treatment. All you can do is offer to help and be there for them. Imagine if you were in this situation and how you might feel.
You can always ask other family members if they want to help, but this should also depend on how private the person wants to be.
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