Start with concern, not accusation.

Choose a calm time. Talk about what you've noticed instead of trying to diagnose or label them.

Try: “I've noticed you haven't seemed like yourself lately, and I'm worried about you.”

Listen more than you talk. You do not have to convince someone that they “have a problem” in one conversation.

Ask what would help and offer to help them find options when they're ready.

You can support them without carrying everything yourself.

Offer to help locate treatment, recovery support, counseling or medical care.

Sometimes practical help — making a phone call, finding a provider or going to an appointment — feels more manageable than saying “you need treatment.”

You can also set boundaries. Supporting someone does not require accepting dangerous, harmful or financially damaging behavior.

Family members deserve support, too.

The amount matters — but so does what happens because of it.

Pay attention if you're drinking more than you planned, finding it difficult to cut back, using alcohol to manage stress or sleep, or continuing even when it creates problems.

Ask yourself: “Am I drinking more often than I want, more than I planned, or despite consequences?”

You don't have to “hit bottom” before changing your relationship with alcohol or asking for help.

Look for patterns and changes.

Possible warning signs include using more than intended, strong cravings, unsuccessful attempts to cut back, hiding use or needing more of a substance to get the same effect.

You might also notice changes in relationships, work, school, finances, sleep, mood, health or everyday responsibilities.

One sign does not automatically mean someone has an addiction. Patterns and consequences matter.

Keep the door open.

People become ready for change at different times. Continue expressing concern without turning every conversation into an argument.

Offer information and options. Reinforce healthier choices when you see them.

You can also get professional guidance or support for yourself even if the other person refuses help.

You don't need to diagnose yourself first.

If you're worried about your substance use, having difficulty cutting down, or noticing consequences, talking to a professional is a reasonable next step.

Treatment doesn't always mean residential treatment. Options may include an assessment, outpatient counseling, intensive outpatient care, medication, peer support or other recovery services.

The right level of support depends on the individual.

Naloxone can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose.

Naloxone — often known by the brand name Narcan — blocks the effects of opioids and can restore breathing during an opioid overdose.

It is designed for emergency use and will not harm someone if opioids are not actually involved.

If you suspect an overdose, give naloxone if available, call 911, and stay with the person until help arrives.

Recovery can look different for different people.

Recovery is a process of improving health, stability and overall well-being.

It may include treatment, medication, counseling, peer support, family support, lifestyle changes, harm-reduction strategies or abstinence.

There is no single recovery path that works for everyone.

Thinking about change is still a step.

You do not have to make a huge decision today. Start by noticing when, why and how much you use.

Think about what you like about your current use and what you don't like about it.

You can also talk confidentially with a healthcare provider or learn more before deciding what you want to do next.