PART 5 : HOW TO HELP A COLLEAGUE

Do’s & Don’t When Discussing Someone’s Substance Use


  •   DO
  • Only deal with immediate safety issues with intoxicated persons
  • Separate “the person” from “the behaviour”
  • Speak calmly and be genuine
  • Express concern, not just about the drug or alcohol, but also about other problems the person may be experiencing
  • Share your experiences
  • Appreciate positive behaviour - "Thanks for sharing that with me"
  • Be curious and listen
  • Be empathic and non-judgemental
  • DON'T
  • Don’t insist on being "right". Listen to what they have to say
  • Avoid getting drawn into an argument. It won’t be helpful to vent anger or to blame or belittle
  • Don’t lay on the guilt trip
  • Avoid the trap of "nagging" - set clear consequences and be willing to follow through
  • Don’t get into a pattern of bailing out the person who is using. (For example, covering debts or making excuses for their absences at work)

DRINKING DOESN’T MAKE PROBLEMS GO AWAY – IT MAKES THEM WORSE.
Tips for Helping a Friend Who is Drinking Too Much