Alcoholism isn’t easy to come back from, but with love and support, it’s possible. Click here to learn how to help an alcoholic loved one reclaim their life.
Did you know that almost 30% of adults in the US report binge drinking in the last month?
Whilst there’s nothing wrong with having a few drinks on a night out, drinking heavily almost every day is a problem. Alcoholism is an addiction that can take over lives and ruin them.
If you know someone who’s been drinking too much recently, or you think could have a problem with alcohol, don’t stand by. Reach out and try to give them the support they need to get back on track.
If you’re not sure what to do, here’s a complete guide on how to help an alcoholic.
- Learn More About Alcoholism
The first step to help an alcoholic is simply learning more about the condition so that you can be more sympathetic. Alcoholism is more than just drinking too much every now and then, it’s a dependency on alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Usually, there’s an underlying issue that’s causing the drinking that you have to be aware of.
- Know What to Say
If you’re looking for information on how to help an alcoholic loved one, it’s important you know what to say before you see them. Try and come up with positive statements that are reassuring and supportive. Avoid anything hurtful, negative, or aggressive.
A great way to stop accusatory statements is by turning the ‘You’ into ‘I’. For example, instead of You’re drinking too much, say I care about you, and I’m concerned with the amount you’re drinking.
The key to helping someone with alcoholism is to be kind and supportive rather than attacking them. Stay calm no matter how they respond, and show they can always talk to you without being judged.
- Pick a Safe Place
If you can, avoid talking about their problem in a public space. When learning how to stage an intervention, it’s important the person you’re helping feels safe. Keep the talk private and in a place, they feel comfortable in, like their home.
- How to Help an Alcoholic in Denial
When it comes to helping a loved one with alcoholism, be prepared for their denial. Stay calm and don’t worry when you face resistance. If their response is negative, then say what you want in a positive manner before leaving to give them time and space.
- What About Rehab?
There are plenty of rehabs for alcoholism, but you can’t force someone to go. Part of recovery is them wanting to recover. That means they need to decide to get professional help.
You can suggest the idea if you’re having a calm conversation, but if it’s your first talk, and they’re having a negative reaction, leave the topic of rehab for another time.
Reach Out Today
If you know someone who’s struggling with alcoholism, it’s never too early to reach out. They’ll need your support as they’re struggling with their addiction. Just remember to keep your conversation positive, sympathetic, and supportive, and come back to these tips on how to help an alcoholic if you’re feeling nervous.
For more lifestyle and health tips, take a look at the other articles on our website.
A professional writer with over a decade of incessant writing skills. Her topics of interest and expertise range from health, nutrition and psychology.