How to Help a Drug Abuser

Interacting with a drug abuser can take its toll on your emotions. It's especially difficult to know that a loved one has given in to the pressure to take drugs. Although support alone can't make someone stop abusing drugs, it can provide a needed boost during tough moments. Helping a drug abuser is a difficult role to undertake, but can be an invaluable asset to a person committed to making a successful recovery.

Instructions

• 1

  Keep her mind focused on the awesome task of recovery. Discuss her rationale for quitting drugs and add in your own wishes for extra motivation. Don't allow her to make light of her intentions during tough times. Let her know that there is life after drug abuse and that she is capable of making a positive change.

• 2

  Encourage him to let his emotions out instead of turning to drugs. Since many people use drugs as a coping mechanism, it's important to break this destructive habit. Make regular contact to discuss both daily and ongoing issues. Convince him to attempt this open dialogue with everyone in his life. Show him positive ways to handle adversity, including knowing when it's best to "let a situation go."

• 3

  Provide a shoulder to lean on without becoming a "doormat". Although your goal is to provide enthusiastic support, don't allow her to run guilt trips or mind games on you. Hold her accountable for her actions instead of making excuses for her negative behaviors. Check behind her to ensure she's not using drugs without your knowledge. Avoid lending money or allowing unsupervised visits to your home unless you're certain she's not still abusing drugs.

• 4

  Remain firm in your stance that drug abuse is unhealthy and counterproductive. This is especially important because drug abusers often attempt to find fault with your lifestyle to justify their drug usage. Let him know that his problem is a priority and that you are there to help him. Avoid snapping back with insults even if his comments are hurtful. Don't let him use your argument as an excuse to break his commitment to recovery.

• 5

  Assist her with making better life choices. Combat feelings of inadequacy with positive conversations about the future. For instance, counseling her about her educational goals can give her something to look forward to accomplishing. Helping her make a resume or find an apartment can also strengthen her desire to beat her addiction.