Is someone in your family or group of friends having alcohol problems?  It is sometimes painful to see people we care for go through such situations.  While it is never a good idea to meddle in other people’s business, it is sometimes more important to step in and confront the person before they cause more hurt and damage in their lives and of those around them.

If you are considering confronting someone, take certain precautions and follow these guidelines to maximize your chances of making the process both smooth and effective.

• Be sure there is a pattern of alcohol abuse before making a move. One incident doesn’t mean there is a problem.  Exercise caution as relationships can be dented from false accusations.
• Write down information. Be aware and keep track of instances when an individual abuses alcohol and the negative results it has led to.
• Confront them while they are sober. Do not approach them when they are intoxicated. Nothing fruitful is likely to come when they are drunk and are not thinking straight.
• Talk with them as soon as possible after an incident or abuse, while the negative aspects are still fresh in their minds.  This will keep the incident real and retain its emotional impact.
• Your attitude is important. Make sure you are in the right frame of mind. The best attitude is one of friendly concern.
• Avoid judment! You will only get them defensive by labelling them as “drunk,” “jerk,” “alcoholic,” etc. Talk objectively but compassionately about what you see happening.
• Stay in the present! Talk about what you see happening right now and the consequences occurring right now, not of what it could lead to.
• Be factual and specific.  Don’t generalize and don’t talk about other people.  People can argue with opinions, but facts speak for themselves (especially when it’s close to home.)