How to Confront Someone With a Substance Abuse Problem

People who develop an addiction usually won't admit they have a substance abuse problem on their own because most of them don't believe they have a problem. Seeing a family member, friend, or loved one destroy their lives can be very harmful to the dynamic of any family. Confronting someone with an addiction problem can be very hard, but is necessary to save the person's life.

The first step in confronting a person is figuring out why it is necessary to confront them. One of the best ways to confront someone who is struggling with an addiction is by having an intervention. This is when a person gathers up all of an addicts loved ones to explain to them why their addiction is wrong. Usually this can cause a person to seek out the therapy they need to get better.

Find out and explain to them what part of their addiction is causing the people around them stress. Say if someone is a heroin addict and they keep stealing money and items from others houses to pawn for drugs, call them out on it. However, when dealing with an addict, be prepared to catch a lot of flak when confrontation occurs because, especially in dire cases, they may be on drugs at the time.

The best way to make sure a point gets across to the addict when confronting them about their addiction is by writing down what you want to say. This ensures that all points, problems, and feelings are not forgotten when being put on the spot. It is important also for the addict themselves to hear about these problems because it is really up to them whether they want help or not.

Setting ultimatums can be dangerous when dealing with a person suffering from drug addiction but may be necessary. Telling the afflicted person that family and friends will disown them, not talk to them, or refuse to enable their addiction any longer will anger the addict, but is necessary to getting them help. The most basic thing that should come from any confrontation is making the addict want to seek help.

Confronting a person who has a substance abuse problem can be tricky, but it is necessary when trying to help someone you love. It is important to remain as calm as possible when presenting the facts to the addict in order to convey positive ideas in a positive light. Write down what needs to be said, use an intervention if needed, know why they need help, and don't take no for an answer.