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How to Help

HOW TO HELP

HELPING BEGINS WITH KNOWING

Substance use disorders can be hidden and often get worse until they are hard to manage.

Knowing the signs of substance use disorder can help you support someone who is struggling and yourself.

Signs of Substance Use Disorder in Personality
  • Need for privacy
  • Mood swings and anger
  • Loss of memory
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Risk-taking
  • Lack of interest and alertness
  • Lower self-esteem
  • Not performing at school or work
  • Strained relationships
Signs of Substance Use Disorder in Using Habits
  • Spending more money on substances
  • Using substances first thing in the morning
  • Using substances at school or work
  • Using more substances more often
  • Using substances alone
View all signs of use

HOW TO BEGIN HELPING

If you think someone is struggling with substance use, there are ways you can help.
How to talk to someone if you suspect they are misusing substances:
  • Learn about substance misuse and the risks of substance use disorder. This can help you be ready to have a conversation with your loved one.
  • Pick a good time and place to talk, when they are not using substance and you have privacy.
  • Be compassionate. Tell them you are worried because you care. Explain what you have noticed and the dangers.
  • Offer to help. Your support can make a big difference. Let them know it is their choice.
  • Listen to their feelings. They might have reasons for using substances. This should be a two-way conversation.

When talking and offering support, keep in mind:

  • Your words and tone matter. Avoid judgement and stigma.
  • Respect their journey. Everyone’s path to recovery is different.
  • Focus on the positives. Remind them of their strengths, support, and good things in life.
  • Know the resources. You can even offer to go with them to get help.
FIND RESOURCES

TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF

Before helping others, it is important to take care of yourself. Helping someone with substance use can be hard and tiring. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, look for ways to practice self-care.

Remember, you do not have to carry the weight of everyone’s problems. Focus on your mental and emotional well-being. Take a breath, enjoy a walk, practice acceptance, or visit with friends.

There are resources and groups to support your role in this journey. Support groups like Al-Anon and Nar-Anon are available to help you. These resources provide a safe space to share your feelings and get advice from others who understand.

Taking care of yourself helps you support others.

CARRY NALOXONE

If you think someone close to you is misusing substances, it is good to carry naloxone, often known by the brand name NARCAN®. Naloxone can reverse overdoses and save lives if used in time.

You can save a life by having naloxone and knowing how to use it.

FIND NALOXONE NEAR YOU

ABOUT US

Brought to you by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (MN DHS) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in partnership with other state agencies participating in the Minnesota State Substance Abuse Strategy.

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