Being a good friend means being there for the ones you care about the most. If you have a friend who is dealing with drug problems, it’s important that you make the right moves to get them back on track. When someone is dealing with substance abuse, alcoholism, or anything similar, the addiction can spread them too thin and lead them towards a downward spiral.
You have the option to either do something big and guide them to properly caring for themselves again or simply let them continue their bad habits. You never know what a few kind words, a quick conversation, or even checking up on someone can do for their future to breaking their addictions.
Understanding the Symptoms
It’s vital that you take a look at their behavior and if things are different. Just taking notice of their lack of attention to life, neglecting basic grooming responsibilities, being moody and out of it, and a loss of interest in activities can show you that they are going through things. Look out for physical cues as well. Bloodshot eyes, pupils that are bigger or smaller than normal, and even just a slurred speech can show signs that they are not their normal selves.
Help a Friend Overcome Their Drug Problems
– Build A Relationship Again
It’s best to dive back into the relationship and building that trust with them. It’s difficult to help a friend when they are still guarded about their problems. You want to be someone they can trust and talk to when things get rough. By simply being a friend and providing a listening ear, they will be more susceptible to hearing you out to get help when you finally bring it up.
– Be Honest About Your Concerns
Don’t be afraid to bring it up and share your concerns at some point. Talk to them about how you would want them to be honest or get help whenever possible. Being honest isn’t always easy, so be sure to share your concerns slowly but reassuringly. Showcase a genuine sense of love and care with how you approach them during this situation.
– Explore Different Options
Talk about the different ways they can get help. Whether it’s to get them talking to a professional, recommending them to a treatment center, or simply giving them advice when they need it the most. Explore the different ways they can get back on track. Once you get their mind moving in the right direction, you can help them move forward and progress.
– Get Them Active and Moving Again
It’s vital that you help keep them accountable without controlling their life. The last thing you want to do is take complete control of their daily activities. It’s still their decision to do what they want to do no matter how much you want to help them. Your best bet is to recommend fun activities or even accompany them on fun productive activities. Whether it’s the gym or visiting a local national park, consider keeping them active and moving.
What Happens If They Refuse My Help?
Your job is to help bring light to their situation. Your job is to be there as support. You are supposed to reach out and provide them a listening ear when they need it the most. If things continue to get worse, there is nothing wrong with reaching out to someone close to your friend who can help give a second opinion and provide advice if yours can’t seem to be enough. You also need to care for your own mental health at this point because it can take its toll trying to get someone else on track for their life.
Whether it’s the addiction to alcohol or different recreational drugs, the addiction can take over someone’s life. Your job is to be there for your friend. Give advice whenever you can, but let them take control of their life as you simply provide the support. Whether it’s recommending the right treatment center or simply listening to them, that is more than enough to help them out.
Give us a call at (833) 922-2653 today. Our counselors are ready to help you or your friend get back on track.
