Watching a loved one or friend suffering from alcohol addiction can be heartbreaking. You may wonder if you can do something to change the scenario and whether he wants your support or not. A person with alcohol addiction is mentally and physically dependent on alcohol. He cannot control his drinking habits on his own.

Usually, he chooses to keep drinking liquor even though it triggers problems to his life. These problems may affect his health and interfere with his social and professional relationships. By seeking help for him from a treatment center, you’re helping the person overcome his addiction to alcohol.

Tips for Approaching a Person with Alcohol Addiction

#1-Know More about Alcohol Addiction

Before doing anything, you should find out first whether your loved one or friend is truly addicted to alcohol. Alcohol addiction is different from drinking too much alcohol every now and then. There are times when frequent alcohol consumption is interpreted as alcoholism when in fact it’s just a social habit or coping mechanism.

If a person is addicted to alcohol, he will never drink moderately even when he keeps on saying “just a few shots.” There are programs and government websites that you can visit now to know more about helping a person with alcohol addiction. It’s time to visit them to get more information regarding the problem.

#2-Say the Best Words of Encouragement

Let him feel your care. Let the person know that you are always there to help him get rid of alcohol addiction. Regardless of how he reacts, you must stay calm and make him see he has your support and respect. Avoid being hurtful, presumptuous, or negative when approaching him. You must be ready for each response.

#3-Choose a Perfect Place and Time for Talking to Him

Choose the right time for approaching him. Look for a quiet and private place and invite him there. Also, make sure he is not upset and preoccupied with other problems by the time you try talking to him. He must be sober too.

#4-Listen to Him with Empathy and Honesty

You can be honest and open with him about it if he’s free from alcohol issues. Helping him overcome alcohol addiction alone will never bring improvement to his condition. Tell him that you are worried about him and express how eager you want to help him. Be ready to see him reacting negatively.

You must be firm in your recommendations. He may be in denial and react irritably to your attempts, but never take everything personally. Give him space and time for making a truthful decision. Listen to what he wants to say.

#5-Offer Your Help

You can never force a person who doesn’t like entering an addiction treatment center, but you can offer your support. It is up to him to choose if he will take it or not. Be sincere, empathetic, and never judge him.

#6-Intervene

Approaching somebody to talk about your concerns is not like an intervention. The intervention involves planning, providing consequences, and introducing the ideal treatment option. An intervention can be the right action plan if your loved one or friend is highly resistant to getting support. During the intervention, his loved ones, friends, and even coworkers get together to confront and urge him to undergo treatment.

You must support him through his journey. Treating alcohol addiction is a constant process, and your part doesn’t end when he enters a rehab center. You can attend meetings with him and offer help in doing household tasks while he undergoes a treatment session. Your care and support will help him succeed in the end.