Drugs Destroy... Hope Heals

Don’t confront a person while the person is high or drunk. Wait until the effects have completely worn off.

Expect to be put on the defensive. A person with a substance abuse problem will vehemently deny it.

State your intentions- that you are confronting the person out of caring and concern, not blame or judgment.

State your motivation- that you are having the conversation because you care.

Be firm in your presentation. Come prepared with specific examples of out-of-control behavior.

Present your observations of the person’s behavior. Focus on what you see happening to the person and the lives of those around him or her. Be very specific.

Express how the person’s behavior makes you feel.

State why you think the person needs help in stopping the addiction.

State what you will do next. Assist the person in getting help and/or involving others in an intervention.