Tips for talking with someone about substance use and addiction
Here’s a list of hotlines that may help you in whatever situation you find yourself in. There are some chat options and text lines as well! If you are in an emergency situation, please call
• Always be respectful in discussions with your loved one.
• Pick a time and place that is peaceful, quiet and private when you both are well rested and calm.
• Let your loved one know that you love them and are concerned and want to help.
• Help your loved one share their thoughts and views with you.
• It is helpful to think about readiness to change – timing is important in conversations so you don’t push too hard.
• Don’t force your loved one into a corner and try to get them to admit they have a problem.
• Talk about your thoughts and views of the behaviors you are seeing that concern you.
• Listen and don’t judge.
• Behavior doesn’t change overnight – be prepared to be patient and persistent.
Tips for supporting someone who is recovering from substance use disorder
- Most importantly, when someone is recovering from addiction, just be there. Sometimes we overthink how we can help someone. It doesn’t matter how you show up. All that matters is that you do. You can check in with a text, go for a walk, ask are they are doing and listen.
- Be supportive and non-judgmental in your interactions with someone in recovery.
- Remind them they can do this.
- Reinforce regularly the positive changes you see.
- Listen and support your loved one in their struggles.
- Congratulate them on the courage that it takes to pursue recovery.
- Take care of yourself. You can’t help someone else if you aren’t taking care of yourself first.
- Join a support group.
- Get informed.
- Talk with a counselor.
- Role model healthy habits and encourage your loved one to join you in your efforts, such as:
- Healthy cooking
- Exercise
- Healthy activities and hobbies
- Get information about local support groups and agencies and share it with your loved one.
- Be patient – recovery is a process with ups and downs. It takes time.
