Watching someone you care about struggle with alcohol abuse can be incredibly difficult. You might feel frustrated, helpless, or even unsure whether you should step in. The reality is that alcohol abuse doesn’t just affect the person drinking—it impacts relationships, families, and entire support systems. If you’re wondering how to help, it’s important to approach the situation with understanding, patience, and clear boundaries.
Recognising the Signs
Before offering support, it’s important to understand what alcohol abuse looks like. Some signs include:
Frequent heavy drinking or binge drinking
Drinking despite negative consequences (relationship issues, work problems, declining health)
Increased secrecy or defensiveness about drinking
Mood swings, irritability, or changes in behaviour
Withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
If your loved one shows these signs, it may be time to address the issue.
How to Offer Support Without Enabling
Many people struggle to balance supporting a loved one with not enabling their behaviour. Enabling happens when actions—often out of love—make it easier for the person to continue drinking. This could be covering for their mistakes, providing money, or making excuses for their behaviour. Instead of enabling:
Encourage open conversations – Express your concerns without judgment. Use "I" statements, such as, "I’ve noticed that drinking has been affecting your mood lately, and I’m worried about you."
Set clear boundaries – Let them know what you will and won’t tolerate. For example, you might refuse to be around them when they are drinking.
Avoid covering up consequences – If their drinking is causing issues, let them experience the natural results of their actions. Shielding them from reality won’t help them recognise the problem.
Encouraging Professional Help
If your loved one is open to change, professional support can make all the difference. Many people struggling with alcohol abuse believe they need to handle it alone, but recovery is far more effective with guidance. Options include:
Outpatient programs – Flexible support while continuing daily responsibilities
Counselling and therapy – One-on-one guidance to understand triggers and develop coping strategies
Support groups – Connecting with others facing similar struggles
A structured program like Reset My Future can provide personalised support, offering an alternative to traditional rehab while fitting into their daily life.
Looking After Yourself
Supporting someone with alcohol abuse can be emotionally exhausting. It’s important to take care of your own mental and emotional well-being. Find your own support, whether through therapy, a trusted friend, or a group for families of alcohol users. You can’t pour from an empty cup, and being in a good place yourself will allow you to be a stronger source of support for them.
Final Thoughts
Helping a loved one struggling with alcohol abuse isn’t easy, but your support can be a turning point for them. The key is to approach it with compassion, set boundaries, and encourage professional help when they’re ready.
If you need guidance on how to approach this conversation or what steps to take next, Reset My Future offers free consultations—not just for those struggling with alcohol, but for their families too. If you're looking for advice, reach out today.
