• Realize the negative effect that alcohol or other drug use is having on the person and that s/he needs to change his/her behavior. Be confident that your involvement is the right and caring thing to do.

• Don't do it alone. Talk with someone else, preferably a counselor, about the best way to approach the situation.

• Talk with your friend – when s/he is sober. Make sure the your friend sees what you see and knows how you have been affected as well.

• Be prepared for negative responses, excuses, and even criticisms of your own behavior. Stay calm and don't take anything personally. Keep the conversation centered on your friend and how substances are affecting him/her.

• If your friend responds negatively, try again after the next instance of abusive behavior – repeat after each incident – be consistent with your message.

• If your friend responds positively, work with him/her to develop a plan for change. Suggest a PIER 21 appointment and offer to come with your friend.

• If your friend's drinking habits do not change, set some limits for yourself and remove yourself from situations that upset or potentially harm you. Ultimately, your friend needs to make his/her own decisions – only s/he can be responsible for her/his actions.

• Find support for yourself and get attention for your needs. This is a tough thing to go through but you do not need to do it alone – there are many resources available to help you through this! Take advantage of them!

Adopted from BACCHUS & GAMMA's "How to Help a Friend With a Drinking Problem"