HELP SOMEONE
Helping Someone You Love (Without Losing Yourself)
Watching addiction destroy someone you love is devastating.
This page gives you practical guidance that is compassionate, realistic, and protective.
If there is overdose risk: don’t wait. Call emergency services immediately (911 in Canada/US).
Safety comes before arguments.
What To Say
Simple, calm truth: “I care about you. I’m worried. I want to help you get support.”
What NOT To Say
Threats, shame, insults, comparisons — they increase hiding and relapse.
Boundaries
Helping is not rescuing. Boundaries protect both you and them.
3 Rules That Actually Work
- Stay calm: addiction thrives in chaos
- Speak truth: don’t enable denial
- Offer action: help them take the next step, not just “try harder”
Practical Help You Can Offer Today
- Drive them to an appointment or detox intake
- Help them call treatment centers (they may be terrified)
- Remove triggers (contacts, drugs, risky environments)
- Offer structure: meals, safe sleep, check-ins