Confronting a friend about drug abuse is incredibly difficult thing to do. It’s a hard situation to be in, and it can also be extremely unpredictable. Someone who is normally very agreeable can quickly become combative if they feel threatened or judged. Here are some tips to help you navigate this mine field and get your friend into drug rehab in Dallas.

Be Sure There Is a Problem
One of the fears associated with confronting an addict is that you could be wrong. Know the signs of addiction before you confront your friend. The fact that your friend takes a lot of pain pills does not mean you are dealing with an addict. However, if your friend is calling for higher doses, missing work, or gets the shakes when he or she runs out of pills, then you may be dealing with an addict.

Talk to the Professionals
You will have questions. You will want confirmation that your friend truly needs help, and you will have questions about what the options will be. Talk to the professionals so you can be fully informed before you try to confront your friend. Meeting with the counselors at an outpatient alcohol and drug treatment program can help you get the knowledge you need to effectively help your friend.

Avoid “You” Statements
Keep the conversation focused on “I” statements. Talk about how seeing your friend high scares you and concerns you. Avoid stating any sentences with the word you. This simple step can help keep the conversation civil and may prevent your friend from going on the defensive.

Do Not Be an Enabler
You can start preparing for the intervention by stopping any behavior that enables your friend. This means that you don’t associate with him when he or she is using, you don’t pick up the drugs for him or her, and you don’t loan him or her money he or she can use to get high.

Many addicts will not get help until they are forced to. Telling someone you care for that they need to check into a Dallas detox center might be the most difficult thing you will ever do. However, it could also be the single act that saves your friend’s life. Solace Counseling is here to help you prepare for the intervention, and we can also help you friend reclaim his or her life. Visit us on Facebook or Twitter today for more tips on helping a friend with an addiction.