1(800) 615-1067Approaching an alcoholic about getting help can be a challenging and emotional situation. Here are some tips for how to approach an alcoholic about getting help:
Choose the right time and place: Choose a time and place where the alcoholic is sober and where you both feel comfortable and safe to have an open and honest conversation.
Use “I” statements: Use “I” statements to express your concerns and avoid blaming or accusing the alcoholic. For example, you could say “I’m worried about your drinking and how it’s affecting your life” instead of “You’re an alcoholic and need to stop drinking.”
Be supportive and empathetic: Let the alcoholic know that you care about them and want to help them get better. Listen to them without judgment and offer support and encouragement.
Offer concrete solutions: Offer specific options for getting help, such as counseling, support groups, or addiction treatment. Be prepared to help the alcoholic research treatment options and make appointments if necessary.
Set boundaries: If the alcoholic is not ready to get help, it may be necessary to set boundaries to protect yourself and your relationship. This could include avoiding enabling behaviors or limiting your contact with the alcoholic if their behavior becomes harmful or dangerous.
Be persistent and patient: Addiction is a chronic and often relapsing disease, so it may take multiple attempts to get an alcoholic to accept help. Be persistent in your efforts to help them and patient in their recovery process.
Remember, approaching an alcoholic about getting help can be a difficult and emotional process. It’s important to approach the situation with compassion, patience, and a willingness to listen and support the alcoholic through their recovery journey.