NIDA for Teens: The Science Behind Drug Abuse
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How To Help a Friend in Need

Sara Bellum

Figuring out what to do when a friend or someone you know is having trouble with drugs or alcohol can be tricky. You want to help, but you might not know how to bring it up. Here are some tips.

Listen. If he talks to you, just be there for him. Admitting a problem—never mind talking to someone about it—is really hard. Listen to what he has to say about his drug use without making judgments.

Encourage. Suggest that she talk to an adult she trusts—a coach or teacher, a school counselor, a relative, or a doctor.

Share. Maybe your friend doesn’t see his or her drug use as a bad thing. But plenty of real scientific information about what drugs can do to a person is on the NIDA Web site. Once your friend understands how drugs affect the brain, body, and life, it might open their eyes.

Inform. When he’s ready to make a change and seek treatment, help him find a doctor, therapist, support group, or treatment program. You can use SAMHSA’s Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator or call 1–800–662–HELP.

Support. Don’t give up on your friend, even if she isn’t ready to get help. Keep reaching out. Encourage them to get treatment, and support them along the way—that’s the best way to help someone you care about who is struggling with addiction.

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This is very helpful.
In case someone needs to help a friend through drug abuse, this will help.

i think no one should ever give up on family friends bf/gf it don't matter if you really love them you will do whatever it takes to help them with there addiction or problem that they have. just remember neve give up on no one no matter what friend or not good or bad never help them be the better person and help people that need it.

drugs will take all your dreams and life away so please don't do drugs

It's good and meaningful in so many articles like this

this is really a good post. following this will definitely help our loved who are experiencing depression.

Andrew S. Mancilla
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This is a very helpful resource. Thankyou. [commercial link removed, per guidelines]

I have bookmarked you blog page to read more from you.
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This all helps us so much. Drugs are harmfull for us.

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