- Drunk driving costs each adult in the United States Almost800 per year;
- In 2012, 10.3 million people reported driving under the influence of illicit drugs in the past year;
- High school students who use alcohol or other substances are five times more likely to drop out of school
- Abuse of tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs is costing the United States more than700 billion in costs (e.g. crime, lost work productivity, and health care).
- When drug use or alcoholism hits our own homes and our loved ones are impacted, we feel helpless. Drug addiction and alcoholism's stigma often makes people afraid to seek help because of fear of disclosure and/or retaliation or discrimination.
"...The sense of stigma is most likely to diminish as a result of public education and broader acceptance of addiction as a treatable disease." -- Institute of Medicine
- Read up all about the signs and symptoms.
- Look at local resources in your community (e.g. possible treatment options).
- Attend support groups
2.Choose the right time to share your concern. Do not bring up the discussion when you suspect that the individual is under the influence. Establish a time that you can meet with them when there are less distractions, etc.
3.Simply voice that you care about them and are concerned. Come from a place of compassion. Remember you are not there to judge or be confrontational. Use your "I" statements and how you see it from your point of view. Do not shame or blame. Practice or role-play before you speak with them. This will help you remain emotionally stable in case an argument should arise. It is key to develop and repeat consistent and caring messages. Remember you are providing support and guidance on how to get help. This is ultimately their choice.
4.Offer help in getting help. If they come to the realization that they are in need of help, continue to provide them with the support that they need. Remember sharing your concerns and help is just the beginning.
- Eat healthy
- Get sleep
- Get some exercise