How to talk to someone about their drinking or drug use.

1. Set up a time and place to chat with the individual.
2. Explain to them your concerns, by stating something like “I’ve noticed something recently and I’d like if we could have a chat about it”.
3. Provide an example of your concern without sounding like you’ve been watching everything they do.
4. Listen to what they have to say, to help understand what they’re going through.
5. Ask open ended questions, such as “How have you been feeling recently when you’ve had a drink?”, this will help steer the conversation.
6. Close the conversation with suggesting that they talk to someone about their drinking or drug use.

Check out potential resources at your school. Below are links to useful resources in Charlotte: