Drug Abuse

What do I do: If I know someone who is involved in drug abuse?

1. Show them genuine love and concern. Don’t talk down to them.
2. Always take them seriously when they talk about it.
3. Don’t be afraid to talk to them about it. If you are not sure, ask them if they sometimes abuse drugs
4. Help them seek out the assistance of others such as teachers, ministers, counselors, and family members.
5. Do not try to use guilt or other manipulative behaviors to try to get them to stop.
6. Encourage them to seek out treatment for themselves and to maintain that treatment. Don’t allow them to persuade you that they can stop on their own. Most people cannot simply stop drug abuse, particularly if they have been doing it for long periods of time.
7. Be aware that they may use manipulation to get money from you in order to continue their addiction.
8. If they refuse to get help, consider talking to their parents about the problem.
9. Remember, their drug abuse could lead to their death.