Are you concerned about a colleague, friend or loved one who needs help and may not realize it? Do you see signs of alcohol or drug use that impair work or family relationships? Would you like to help but don’t know what to do?

If the individual recognizes the problem, you can encourage him or her to call LCL-CT for confidential assistance. If the individual cannot see the problem, a team of trained LCL volunteers can meet with you and concerned individuals to plan and conduct an intervention that will encourage recovery and help save a career.

How can I help a colleage, friend or loved one?        

• Educate yourself
• Don’t blame yourself
• Don’t take responsibility for making your colleague, friend or loved one well
• Approach the person to talk about getting help when you are calm
• Don’t make it easier for your colleague, friend or loved one to continue self-destructive behavior
• Don’t preach or lecture
• Don’t use guilt
• Realize that your colleague, friend or loved one’s illness can affect his or her thoughts and views
• Do your best to give support and be patient throughout the recovery process
• Allow your colleague, friend or loved one to spend the time he/she needs with support groups and treatment
• Get support for yourself
• Never give up hope