Under the Influence: Helping a Friend Who Has a Drug Problem

Drug and alcohol use should never be taken lightly, especially when you’re in school and underage. Forget the bogus assurances that “everybody does it” because it’s just not true. As a student and athlete, drugs and/or alcohol can ruin your future career and even your life. Don’t take the risk. While you may know this, not everyone does. Particularly as you grow up and enter high school, you may encounter students or friends who have fallen prey to peer pressure. If you think a friend or teammate on your cheer squad is experiencing a problem with drugs or alcohol, know what to do to get her help before. First of all, squash the myths. Don’t assume what you’ve seen on TV or what a friend has told you is true. Before you can help a friend or understand a substance abuse problem, you’ve got to know the truth. Some people may try to tell you that alcohol isn’t as bad as drugs. That’s not true. First of all, teenagers who drink are more likely to try drugs. Second of all, alcohol impairs your ability to make decisions and healthy choices, just like drugs. Another common myth is that it’s okay to just use drugs with friends at parties. Many drugs are highly addictive and even smoking or consuming a drug once or twice can kill brain cells or negatively affect your health. Know the signs of an addiction. It’s never a good idea to assume a friend has a drug problem. You don’t want to get her in trouble for no reason. However, don’t ignore any odd behavior because you don’t think it’s “your business” to butt in. Common signs of substance abuse or addiction include (but aren’t limited to): withdrawing depression increased secrecy lying drastic change in weight dramatically increased or decreased energy paranoia Approach the situation carefully. With a touchy situation like addiction, tread lightly! The worst thing you can do is attack or criticize your friend for her actions. That will only upset her. Chances are, if she’s using drugs or alcohol, she’s likely going through a difficult and confusing time in her life. She may be struggling with depression, family issues, or other emotionally trying problems. Before you talk with your friend, write a list of problems that have resulted from her drug or alcohol use. Has she been messing up at practice? Have her grades suffered? Once you know whether or not your friend has a problem, you can see how her altered actions are affecting her negatively. Talk with her somewhere private. Don’t go to a restaurant or coffee shop where it will be noisy and distracting. Preferably, meet somewhere she feels safe, like your bedroom or a quiet park. While talking with her, share your worries and concerns. Remind her she has friends who care about her and don’t want to see her hurt. By adding in these types of remarks, it won’t seem like you’re “lecturing” her or that you think you’re better than her. After you’ve expressed everything you wanted to say, encourage her to seek professional help. As much as you may have helped, someone can always learn more from a professional. Many schools have a therapist, which is a great place to start. Remember… If your friend’s problem seems severe, don’t be afraid to reach out to your coach or your friend’s parents. Don’t worry about getting her into trouble or getting her kicked off the team. Everyone’s main concern will be getting her help, not punishing her. Resources For further information and help concerning alcohol or drug use, visit some of the following sites: Brown Sacramento County Sheriff Above the Influence Have you ever helped a friend or teammate with a difficult situation? Does your coach or any of your teachers discuss drugs or alcohol use?