How to Help a Friend

Initiating a conversation about a friend's sunstance use can be difficult, but it can also make a lifesaving difference. Below are a few tips to start that conversation and let your friend/loved one know that you care and that you’re concerned.

• Educate yourself. Take time to learn about substance abuse.
• Provide Resources. Before talking with your friend/loved one, learn about the support services on and off-campus to assist with substance abuse recovery.
• Find a private place to discuss your worries.
• Avoid starting those conversations if one (or both parties) are intoxicated. Your message will be better received with a clear-head.
• Time the message. Your friend/loved one may be more receptive to the negative influence of substances after experiencing a problem related to drinking/substance use.
• Keep minimal expectations. Your friend/loved one may respond to your questions with anger, denial or leaving the conversation entirely. Don’t take this personally. Recognize that you have planted the seed should your friend/loved one recognize the problem.
• Support them. Let your friend/loved one know that you are available to connect them to on and off-campus resources whenever they are ready to reach out.

Click here to view community resources. 

Remember, the road to recovery is often windy and steeped with hills and valleys along the way. You cannot fix a person, you can simply support them on their journey through recovery.