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How To Approach A Drug Addict

Written by Seth Fletcher on February 20, 2015
Last update: February 26, 2024
Overcoming a drug addiction is a difficult thing to do; approaching a loved one who is addicted to drugs so that they can actively combat their drug problem is just as hard. The first thing that you need to know is that successfully going to your friend or family member to let them know that they need to fight back against this illness and that you are there for them needs more than your love. In order to get them to help themselves, you need to know how to approach a drug addict in the first place. To help you with this, we are going to walk you through steps that you should take.

Step 1: Talk to Them Alone

The first thing that you need to try is to pull the drug addict aside so that you can have a private conversation with them. This approach should be done first because it is often much less overwhelming and intimidating than an approach that involves multiple people.The environment that you choose to approach the addict should be free of distractions and a very comfortable space for them. When speaking to the drug addict, be sure that you do not sound like you are placing any blame on your loved one for their addiction. Regardless of the circumstances that caused it, drug addiction is not a choice and you must make it clear that you understand this fact.If you can get other friends and family members to approach them as well, make sure that they follow the tips that we just outlined.

Step 2: Stage an Intervention

If the drug addict does not respond to individual conversations, then the next step to take is to stage an intervention. When thinking about how to approach a drug addict through an intervention, you must understand that they cannot feel cornered. This will anger them and cause them to shut down almost immediately. This means that you should not lock them in a room or otherwise block their exit. In fact, they should be able to feel as though they can leave the room at any time.It is often beneficial to consult an expert about how to approach the intervention, or even bring them along.Everyone in the room should have an opportunity to speak. As such, you will need to allot at least two hours of time for the intervention. In addition to expressing their concern for the drug addict, make sure that everyone who is participating discusses how the behavior caused by the drug addiction is affecting them. This is important, because a drug addict may be more willing to combat his or her addiction if they see that they are not the only ones being adversely affected.

Step 3: Participate in All Recovery Activity

Once you have convinced the drug addict that they need to actively fight against their addiction, your job is not yet done. You should be actively involved in the treatment process, no matter what. Even if you are using the best treatment options like inpatient rehabs, you must still maintain your continued support. Make sure that he or she knows that your will always be there.

Helping Your Loved One Recover Requires the Right Approach

It is possible for your drug addicted friend or family member to fight back against this illness, and you can help. You just have to approach them in the right way. For more information about how to approach a drug addict and other ways to help your loved one fight back against drug addiction, feel free to contact us.
Certified Addiction Counsellor

Seth brings many years of professional experience working the front lines of addiction in both the government and privatized sectors.

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