Question by Michael C: How can I get my alcoholic friend to seek treatment?
I have a middle-aged, divorced female friend who has had an alcohol problem since we were both in high school, many years ago. Since we’ve reconnected it’s quite obvious that she still drinks heavily and is also likely addicted to barbiturates of some kind. She’s still in denial, although she can hardly hold down a job, and even has hand tremors when she goes without alcohol for a few hours. To make matters worse, she also has a young daughter that she’s taking care of, despite being passed out occasionally, or sleeping unusually long hours.

I know that her family has tried to convince her to get help, but she’s pushed everyone away. She wants to have a relationship with me, and I don’t want to alienate her by demanding that she go to detox, but I don’t know of any other way.

Does anyone have experience with this type of situation, or any suggestions for how to bring up “treatment” in a conversation? Thanks!

Best answer:

Answer by Bill
an intervention with an ultimatum usually works, especially if everyone she loves and cares about is there, tell her she either has to get help or everyone is going to disown her because she is a negative influence and won’t seek help.

i know it sounds harsh, but you gotta do what you gotta do to help someone out.

BTW the intervention participants shouldnt really disown her, it’s a bluff, hopefully she doesn’t call you guys out on it.

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