What to do when it’s time to step up
mPower can offer you a lot of support and knowledge in a crisis situation. All our resources are designed to get you through that moment.
But when the time comes, you’re the one who has to step up and help a friend.
So, a few quick tips to help you do that:
- Don’t wait until somebody’s life is in danger. Step in at the first sign that something’s not quite right.
- Reassure your friend that you’re there to help. Keep your friend calm and explain to them what you plan to do to get them through the situation.
- Take action—whether it’s getting your friend to a safe place or a hospital, or calling mPower 866-661-6797(MPWR); or txt Keyword: MPOWER to 55358 so when you’re not quite sure what to do.
- Never, ever abandon your friend.
If you are worried about a friend, here are some specific guidelines for helping a friend with a substance abuse problem:
ASK questions, without getting too in-your-face. Simply let them know you’re concerned for their well-being, and get them talking with questions that require more than a “yes” or “no.”
LISTEN, but don’t judge. How you handle this part will determine whether your friend keeps talking to you. Be supportive and stay positive.
SHARE with your friend that they have been acting different lately—the red flags you’ve seen. Your friend may downplay or even deny they’ve got a problem, so backing up your concerns with the facts can get them to recognize what’s going on.
SHOW your friend how using hurts them and those close to them.
BE THERE and be patient. It’s hard for people to admit they have a problem and need help. Your friend may become defensive, make excuses and get angry. Just know you did the right thing and continue to support your friend.
CONNECT your friend with people who know what to do, like us here at mPower. Encourage your friend to talk to someone else, as well, so you aren’t going it alone.
TAKE CARE of yourself. Helping a friend can be difficult, and there’s only so much you can do. So find people who can talk to.
