Tips on How to Help a Friend With Addiction
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
People with addiction can exhibit a range of symptoms. Behavior, physical appearance, and social interactions can provide clues as to whether one might be addicted to drugs or alcohol. Although specific symptoms can vary according to the individual and the substance being used, if you suspect a friend is battling addiction, some common signs to look out for include, behavioral, physical, and social symptoms and signs.1
Behavioral Symptoms of Addiction
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Irritability and agitation
- Lack of motivation
- Neglected responsibilities
- Loss of interest in school, work, or hobbies
- Poor performance at school or work
- Self-isolation
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Lack of concern for appearance and hygiene
- Stealing or selling possessions to buy drugs
- Risky behavior (such as drunk driving)
- Preoccupation with obtaining drugs
Physical Symptoms of Addiction
- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
- Sleeping problems
- Nausea and vomiting
- Excessive sweating
- Tremors
- Bloodshot eyes
- Pupils that are smaller or larger than normal
- Bloody or runny nose
- Frequent nosebleeds
- Slurred speech
- Impaired coordination
Social Symptoms and Other Clues
- Legal issues
- Financial difficulties
- Socializing with others who misuse drugs
- Drug paraphernalia (spoons, syringes, pipes)
Research Treatment Options for Your Friend
One way to help your friend or loved one consider treatment is to remove the complexity associated with finding treatment. Thoroughly research and provide treatment options to help them come to a decision. Explore treatment center amenities, prices and insurance coverage, and ensure the correct level of care will be provided at the treatment center.
The cost of rehab may vary based on their individual needs. Insurance may often be able to help cover the cost of treatment. You can even verify your friend’s insurance if you have their information.
What to Say To Someone Struggling With Addiction
It is important to talk to your friend about their substance use problem. Try some of these recommendations to make the process a easier for both of you:
- Initiate a conversation when they are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.2 If they are not sober during the discussion, they are less likely to be understanding of the matter.
- Meet in a neutral place.
- Allow plenty of time to talk. Don’t try to have this conversation when either of you have somewhere else you need to be.
- Create a two-way dialogue so that your friend doesn’t feel like you’re lecturing them.
- List the dangerous behaviors that you have observed and emphasize that you are worried about the effects that their addiction is having on both them and their family.
- Experts suggest developing and repeating a consistent, positive message, such as, “We care about you and we want you to get help.”2
- Prior to your discussion, you should find a rehab program for your friend. Do diligent research of all available treatment options and ask plenty of questions before making your selection. Depending on the substance being used and the level of addiction, detox treatment may be needed before starting therapy.3
- Find out exactly how the program works, and plan for your friend to start treatment immediately. To make the decision easier for your friend to make, have a bag packed and transportation prearranged.
Offering Compassionate Support Without Enabling
Many people struggling with addiction do not realize how much their family and friends love them. Be loving and supportive and let them know that you’re going to support them throughout their journey to recovery.4
To ensure that you’re not enabling their addiction, your support should help them come to the conclusion that they need and can get help. For instance, maybe you offer to watch their pet while they’re in rehab.
Enabling them, on the other hand, would be doing things that make it easy for them to continue their substance use. If you cover their share of the rent or call in sick for them, you’re enabling the addiction to continue.
Find ways to help, not enable.
Encouraging First Steps Towards Your Friend’s Recovery
One thing to note is that this may not be a one-and-done conversation. Often, someone’s decision to seek professional treatment for their drug or alcohol addiction takes multiple conversations and lots of loving support and encouragement. Beyond conversations, there are some things you can try.
A Group Intervention is One Option
If your friend is reluctant to seek help, sometimes they can be persuaded through an intervention. This is when family members, friends, and associates come together out of concern and love to confront their friend and encourage them to get help. Consultation with an addiction professional can help you organize an effective intervention for your friend, allowing you to convey the message that the only choice is to accept help and begin the road to recovery.5
Not Ready for Treatment? Start With a Text
You can’t force your friend into treatment, but you can encourage them to begin to explore their options so they can end the cycle of addiction and regain control of their life. American Addiction Centers (AAC) offers a confidential, pressure-free way to connect with an experienced, judgement-free individual who understands addiction and the process of recovery. Encourage your friend to sign up for text support today.
