Living with a substance abuser can be difficult, at best.  We want to help them but sometimes we just don’t know where to turn or what to do.  It is often said that the addict/alcoholic has to “hit bottom” before he/she will go for help, and there is some truth to that statement. Think about it. We rarely ask for help with anything unless it is really causing us problems. We don't usually go to the doctor or take our car to the mechanic unless there is an obvious problem, often one that has been present for some time. When you think about the nature of addiction, which is characterized by such great denial and delusion, it is clear why a person with an alcohol or other drug problem doesn't just wake up one day and decide to get help. There is usually some crisis - one that makes the discomfort of using drugs or alcohol greater than the discomfort of quitting - which sends him or her to get help.

But it is possible to “raise” that bottom for the addict/alcoholic. The best steps a family member or friend can take to help a person with an alcohol or other drug problem are to LEARN the facts about addiction, get SUPPORT for him/herself, IDENTIFY and STOP any “enabling” behaviors and CALL The Council at 713-942-4100.

Click on the Services & Programs link for information about services at The Council or contact us at 713-942-4100 or counseling@council-houston.org.