How do I talk to someone about pre-addiction?
If you’re concerned about someone’s substance use, it can be hard to start a conversation with them. You don’t want to offend them, but you obviously care about their wellbeing. If you think someone might be experiencing pre-addiction, try following these steps:
Ask if they have ever heard of pre-addiction, and let them know that you just learned about it.
Ask if they’ve ever evaluated their relationship with alcohol and drugs.
Listen openly and non-judgmentally to whatever they have to say about their relationship with drugs or alcohol.
Educate them that pre-addiction is similar to pre-diabetes. That getting support during this time can improve quality of life and prevent bad things from happening due to using drugs or alcohol, including preventing full blown addiction.
Keep the focus on their health and well-being.
Engage in a conversation that encourages them to think about why they use drugs and alcohol and whether or not using is helping or hurting them.
Ask if they know about the benefits of getting support early.
Ask if they’ve ever considered support.
Ask them if they would like you to send them some information about how to successfully achieve the lifestyle changes that reverse pre-addiction.