How To Help a Friend Struggling with Addiction

When someone you care about is struggling with addiction, it can be both confusing and emotionally taxing. You may feel a range of things: frustration, sadness, concern, and even helplessness. But remember, your support can make all the difference in the world in your friend’s journey to recovery.

Here we offer some tips on how to initially talk to your friend as well as guidance on supporting them effectively through their recovery.

Tips for Talking to Your Friend About Addiction

Approaching someone about their addiction can be intimidating, especially a friend or loved one. Often, having a difficult conversation is a crucial step in helping someone recognize the need for change. 

Here are some things to consider when you want to start that conversation:

• Choose the Right Time & Place – Pick a time when your friend is sober and you are both calm. This will make them more receptive and understanding to the feedback you are giving them. Find a quiet, private place where you won’t be interrupted. These steps allow for a more open and honest conversation.

• Express Concern Without Judgment – When showing someone concern for their wellbeing, it’s important to do so without sounding accusatory or judgmental. Using “I” statements (“I’m worried about you because I’ve noticed you’re drinking more lately”) instead of “you” statements (“you’re drinking too much”) can show your friend that you are coming from a place of love and care, not criticism.

• Be Prepared for Resistance – Understand that your friend might be defensive or in denial about their addiction. Addiction is often accompanied by shame and fear, so they may not be ready to acknowledge the problem. Stay calm and patient to avoid getting into an argument. Always emphasize that you’re there to support them, no matter what.

• Offer Resources & Solutions – Come prepared with information about recovery options, like local support groups, counseling options, or treatment centers. Offer to help them research or even accompany them to a meeting. Showing them that you’re there to help them make change will show them that they don’t have to go through it alone.

• Set Boundaries & Be Honest About Your Feelings – Be honest with how their addiction is affecting you. Let them know you care and be empathetic, but set boundaries to protect your own well-being as needed. Making sure your needs are met ensures you can provide better support and care for someone else.

• Learn Effective Tactics - if you wish to take your conversation a step further, explore proven tactics counselors use, such as motivational interviewing, founded on the principle that a collaborative conversation is meant to strengthen a person’s motivation and commitment to change. 

Tips To Support Your Friend Struggling With Addiction

Being supportive of a friend with addiction means finding a balance between showing empathy and encouraging them to seek help. Here are six ways to show support:

1. Be a Listening Ear
   Sometimes, the best support you can give is also the simplest. Listen to your friend’s thoughts, feelings, and struggles without judgment. Having someone really listen to them removes feelings of isolation and makes it easier to reach out and seek help.

2. Encourage Healthy Habits
   Exercising, eating a balanced diet, or joining a hobby or club are all great interests that provide balanced, healthy habits. Positive activities such as these, especially when engaging in them with loved ones, can provide distractions from cravings and help build a healthy lifestyle moving forward.

3. Stay Involved
   Check in regularly with your friend. Offer to accompany them to therapy sessions, support group meetings, or appointments. By showing consistent support, you can motivate them to continue on their path to recovery.

4. Educate Yourself
   Understanding addiction and its complexities can help you better support your friend. Learn about the nature of addiction, the triggers, and the challenges of recovery. The more you know, the better equipped you are to offer meaningful support.

5. Celebrate the Small Victories
   Every journey has its setbacks, and the road to recovery is no different. So instead of always focusing on the bigger picture, celebrate the small victories along the way. This can be anything from your friend attending their first support group meeting to reaching a week of sobriety. Positive reinforcement can encourage a stronger push towards progress.

6. Seek Professional Help
   While your support is invaluable, there are times when professional intervention is necessary. If your friend is in denial about their addiction or if their behavior is becoming increasingly dangerous, it might be time to encourage them to speak with a professional. Places like The Walker Center offer a range of programs and services designed to support individuals at every stage of their recovery journey. Getting them professional help while continuing to show support can encourage your friend further along in their journey than if they were just doing it alone.

Your Support Throughout Their Recovery Journey Matters

Supporting a friend who is struggling with addiction can be challenging, but your empathy and encouragement can be a lifeline. You can play an important role in their recovery by approaching the situation with care, offering unwavering support, and providing resources for professional help. 

Remember, addiction is complex, and recovery is possible with the right support and treatment. If you or a loved one needs assistance, The Walker Center is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive recovery programs and services.