How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder

By Your Health Magazine

Your Health Magazine

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How to Help a Loved One Struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder

When someone close to you is struggling with alcohol use, it can leave you feeling scared, confused, and unsure of what to do next. While reaching out to help might feel overwhelming, it can make a meaningful difference in their life—and strengthen your bond as well.

In this blog, you’ll learn:

• How to approach your loved one about their drinking
• Ways to find suitable professional help
• How to support them through treatment and recovery

When Does Alcohol Use Become a Problem?

Not everyone who drinks has a problem. Many adults consume alcohol socially and responsibly. However, when drinking becomes frequent, excessive, or starts affecting one’s health and relationships, it may signal an alcohol use disorder (AUD).

Common Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder

AUD is a chronic medical condition marked by a strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over its use, and negative emotions when not drinking. Look out for these signs:

• Trying to cut down on drinking but failing
• Drinking despite knowing it worsens emotional or physical issues
• Risky behaviour while drinking (e.g., driving)
• Arguments and issues at home or work due to alcohol
• Needing more alcohol over time to feel the same effects (tolerance)
• Feeling sick or anxious when not drinking (withdrawal symptoms)
• Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from it
• Ignoring responsibilities due to drinking
• Drinking more than intended regularly

If your loved one shows these signs, they may need professional help. Recognising the problem is the first step toward healing.

Research Alcohol Addiction Treatment Options

Before having a serious conversation, it’s smart to explore treatment options for alcohol addiction. This helps you speak with more confidence and provide guidance when your loved one is ready.

Here are some options to look into:

• Inpatient rehab centres
• Outpatient programs
• Detox services for safe withdrawal
• Counseling and therapy (individual or group)
• Support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

Try to learn about:

• What treatment involves
• If health insurance covers it
• How the admissions process works

The more informed you are, the more helpful and reassuring you’ll be to your loved one.

Talking to Your Loved One About Alcohol Misuse

Approaching someone about their drinking can be delicate. Choose a time when they’re sober and calm. Use a gentle tone, avoid judgment, and focus on your concerns with care.

Here are some tips:

• Use “I” statements (e.g., “I’m worried about you” instead of “You need to stop”)
• Listen more than you speak
• Be patient—they may deny or resist at first
• Avoid arguing or blaming

They may not be ready to accept help immediately, but planting the seed can make a difference later on.

When They Don’t Want Help

It can be heartbreaking when a loved one refuses treatment. Reasons might include:

• Not seeing their drinking as a problem (denial)
• Fear of stigma or embarrassment
• Worrying about the cost of rehab

If this happens:

• Respect their pace but stay consistent with support
• Gently share what you’ve learned about alcohol rehab and treatment
• Set healthy boundaries to protect your own well-being (e.g., not covering for them at work)

Even if they say no now, having treatment info ready means you’ll be prepared if they change their mind.

Can You Force Someone Into Rehab?

In some locations, it’s possible to legally request involuntary treatment under specific conditions. However, most families hesitate to take this step. The good news? Research shows that even if someone is forced into treatment, it can still be effective.

That said, it’s always best to try voluntary steps first and consult a professional about available options in your area.

Educate Yourself on Alcohol Use Disorder

The more you know about addiction, the better you can support your loved one—and care for yourself. Alcohol addiction is a disease influenced by brain chemistry, mental health, genetics, and life experiences.

It’s treatable, but not curable. Long-term recovery is possible with the right care, consistency, and support system.

Consider joining support groups like Al-Anon, which are designed for friends and family of people with alcohol problems. They offer education, encouragement, and tools to set boundaries without guilt.

Supporting Someone in Alcohol Recovery

Helping someone through rehab and recovery is a long-term commitment. Recovery doesn’t stop after detox—it’s a lifelong journey with ups and downs.

Some helpful ways to support them:

• Encourage regular therapy or group meetings
• Celebrate small milestones
• Avoid keeping alcohol at home

• Join them in sober activities and hobbies
• Offer to attend mutual-help group meetings with them (if they want)

Remember: recovery is not linear. Relapse can happen—but it doesn’t mean failure. It’s just a signal that the treatment approach may need adjusting.

What to Do If Your Loved One Relapses

A relapse means returning to drinking after a period of sobriety. Around 66% of people in recovery from alcohol use disorder experience relapse at some point. It’s common, and not a sign to give up.

Be supportive—not angry. Help them:

• Reach out to a sponsor or counselor
• Consider a new or more intensive treatment option
• Reflect on what triggered the relapse

Above all, encourage them to try again. Many people go on to recover fully after setbacks.

Relapse Prevention Tips

Learning how to prevent relapse plays a vital role in maintaining long-term sobriety. One key element is recognising and steering clear of known triggers. Once your loved one understands what might lead them back to alcohol, it’s essential to create distance from those situations. This might involve removing alcohol from their home, avoiding social events or environments where drinking was once common, and distancing themselves from individuals who may not support their recovery journey.

Taking care of one’s physical and emotional health is also a major protective factor. Simple practices such as getting enough rest, maintaining a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, trying mindfulness techniques like meditation, and replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations can provide healthier outlets than turning to alcohol.

Having a strong circle of support can make a significant difference. The journey of recovery becomes more manageable when surrounded by people who encourage and uplift. Support may come from engaging in social activities that don’t revolve around alcohol, joining peer support or mutual-help groups, or rebuilding relationships with loved ones who have offered support throughout the recovery process.

Continuing care after formal treatment ends is just as important as the treatment itself. Aftercare options—like ongoing counselling sessions, involvement in support groups, living in a sober and stable environment, and staying engaged with recovery communities through alumni events—can provide ongoing motivation and reinforcement as your loved one works to stay alcohol-free.

Look After Yourself Too

Caring for someone with alcohol misuse challenges can take a toll. Don’t forget to care for your own physical and mental health. Consider:

• Attending family support groups
• Seeking personal counseling
• Taking breaks and prioritising self-care
• Talking openly with trusted friends

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Supporting someone in recovery is easier when you feel balanced and strong.

Final Thoughts

Helping a loved one with alcohol use disorder is not easy—but it is worth it. Your patience, empathy, and support can encourage them to seek help and start a new chapter in life.

Even if progress feels slow, every conversation and small action counts. And remember: you’re not alone. More treatment options and resources are available now than ever before.

Together, with understanding and persistence, recovery is possible.