How can I help a friend with a substance abuse problem?

Published July 15, 2010

Question by wendy: How can I help a friend with a substance abuse problem?
He is really heading down hill.. He says he’s out of control and he wants to stop but nothing he has done has helped. He’s going to lose everything, should I let him or should I try to support him and help in whatever way I can?

Best answer:

Answer by EDtherapist
I’m sorry to hear that he is struggling, and that it’s having an impact on you. All you can do is to point out what you are noticing and encourage him to get help. Educate yourself so that you know what helps him and what hurts him. I know it’s difficult, but you don’t want to be doing anything that might enable him to continue in his addiction.

Here’s a link to a therapist search. You can search for therapists who specialize in substance abuse treatment:
http://therapists.psychologytoday.com/rms/prof_search.php

Also, a link to narcotics anonymous:
http://www.na.org/

You might find it helpful to attend some al-anon meetings for support for you.
http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/

Good luck!

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