How to Talk to a Loved One Who Has a Drinking Problem

Seeing someone you love struggling with a drinking problem is heartbreaking. Although it may seem there is little you can do to help him, talking to him about his addiction and encouraging him to get help is the best way to help him empower himself to overcome the disease. It may be hard for him to come to terms with his addiction, but the more support he has and the sooner he gets help, the greater chances of success he will have in recovery.

Things You'll Need

• Support group
• Private meeting place
• Rehap facility

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Instructions

• 1

  Contact local support groups for alcohol addiction for information on the type of support the group provides, meeting times and regulations. You can even attend a meeting to see how others are coping with recovery and to help you to feel confident about the support and guidance your loved one can receive in his own town. Alcoholics Anonymous says the only requirement for attending an AA meeting is the desire to stop drinking. The AA site also has a search option to help you find meeting places and times.

• 2

  Let family members and close friends know that you are planning to talk to him about his addiction. This is especially helpful if you think he will respond negatively to you, as family and friends can back you up. Create a unified approach by Inviting some of his closest family and friends to talk to him with you.

• 3

  Pick a time and place where you and your loved one can meet privately, along with any other family members or friends who will be attending. Avoid public places where he may feel uncomfortable and deny his drinking problem. Do not go to his house to talk to him, as this may make him feel trapped.

• 4

  Greet him warmly when he comes into the room. Start by saying something positive about your relationship, such as a shared memory or an activity you have always enjoyed together. When you begin talking about his drinking, stay calm and speak clearly. The website for Alberta Health Services in Canada suggests telling him how and where you want him to get help. Talk about the positive things that will come out of his recovery and how you and his friends and family will help him through it.

• 5

  Offer to go with him to his first meeting or to make an appointment with a counselor. If he is referred to a rehab program or wants to go to rehab on his own, offer to take him to the facility. Ask the rehab counselors how you can keep in touch with him to offer support through his recovery.