How do you approach someone when you think they're drinking way too much?

Question

Lately someone in my life has been drinking more than their not. I don't think an intervention would work because not too many other people are seeing what I'm seeing. Can anyone offer suggestions as to how to handle this?

Answer 1

If they are drinking too much, there is probably an underlying problem they have not shared. Just showing you care may be all the person needs. I would express my concern for them - they don't seem to be the same anymore, "you haven't been yourself", is something wrong? They may deny it or start talking. Whatever, then you listen or go on to point out you think they have been drinking more than usual, if not flat out too much. They may be defensive - just keep reminding them you just care about them. They may break down - that's where you get to listen.

It's tough to say how it will go, but just letting them know you see something amiss may open the flood gates.

Answer 2

You could try leaving some Alcoholics Anonymous pamphlets around, particularly the one titled 'Is AA right for Me?'. You might also inlist the help of a recovered alcoholic. It has been shown that another alcoholic can usually win the confidence of an active drunk easier than even a relative, because if he or she is an alcoholic, their stories will have similarities. AA works, it worked for me!

Answer 3

The same way you just did with us.

"You're drinking too much. You're drinking more than you're not. I'm concerned because you are in my life and you are important to me."

If they don't stop, its not your fault.

Hope for the best, prepare for the worst.

Answer 4

Contact your local Al-Anon Intergroup. Al-Anon is for people who have loved ones who drink.

http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/

Good luck.

Answer 5

you should be up front and tell them they should lay off the liquor because they are hurting themselves and ppl around them