Skip to main content Skip to bottom nav

How do I tell my family that I might have a problem with drugs or alcohol?

12 Answers
Last Updated: 11/28/2016 at 12:06pm
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Jill Kapil, PsyD

Psychologist

I have over 9 years of clinical experience, specialize in anxiety, and am passionate about my work. My approach is collaborative, empathic, supportive, and goal-oriented.

Top Rated Answers
Anonymous
July 14th, 2015 6:26am
The best thing to do is just come out with it and tell them you need help. The first step to recovery from drug addiction is admitting that you do need help.
Anonymous
June 21st, 2016 5:11am
If it is difficult to have this conversation orally, perhaps writing a letter would be a good option. Additinally, if you are concerned that you won't be able to say what you need to or the reaction of your parents frightens you bringing in a third party may be advisable. Third party may be a shook counsellor or something who your parents might already trust.
Soulreallymatterstome
January 27th, 2015 10:26pm
I think that when someone feels that they have a problem with drugs or alcohol, half the battle is won. I believe treatment will not work until that awareness and accountability is present. It's hard dealing with family because they may or may not also have a problem with drugs and/or alcohol. Sometimes the person getting sober upsets the apple cart by exposing the rest of the family's problems. I think it may be best to just let the family know that you have realized that you have this problem and know that the need to seek professional treatment. Ask for their support but do not rely on it, there is plenty of people who have been successful getting and staying sober.
LateNightKnitter
January 31st, 2015 7:24pm
Be honest, this is very important, give them the full disclosure of how you are feeling, the issues you are facing and that you are requesting help. They will respect you for coming to them and asking for help as this shows true courage and commitment.
TheHandOfTheKing
May 25th, 2015 11:34am
be in a calm relaxed enviroment and maybe have some information e.g. a pamphlet or youtube video on tis topic along with any professional advice you have. try to explain things thoroughly so you can help your parents gain understanding.
courageousBeach30
June 2nd, 2015 10:42pm
Recognising you may have a problem is a big step, to be able to admit to yourself you have a problem can be harder than admitng to others you have one. If you are strong enough to admit it to yourself believe you are strong and brave enough to admit it to your family. Maybe pick your closest relative to tell first so that they can help you to inform the rest of your family and help you in your path to recovery
Anonymous
June 6th, 2015 2:17am
Just tell them straight up. You want to make sure they understand the seriousness or potential seriousness of the problem.
beautifulCandy40
September 15th, 2015 1:22am
Tell them by saying that you know it maybe wrong and why you even started it in the frist place and that you would like to get help and you need them.
Anonymous
January 25th, 2016 12:57pm
Bring them facts about helping people who got a problem with one of those, and be honest and open up for them, tell them that you don't feel good and split the truth
Anonymous
May 10th, 2016 5:10pm
I had to do this before and it is not easy. I started by telling my mom that I needed to talk about something serious, I asked her not to judge me. We sat down and I told her about my addiction, I expected her to become angry but she just became really sad. We both cried and shared a lot of hugs. I told her about some abuse that triggered my drug habits and she asked me if I would get help. I did and it was the best thing I've ever done. It brought me and my mom closer together and for once in my life I felt a sense of relief. I no longer had to hold all these secrets in and I got the help that I deserved.
dreamSoul41
September 26th, 2016 9:57pm
Be honest with everyone,the more honest you are the more open your family will be open to helping you as to say there's a problem means your ready for help
Anonymous
November 28th, 2016 12:06pm
Start by having open and honest communication with your family. Explain your situation, and if it is help you are seeking ask for it. Opening up about addiction can be hard and overwhelming and sometimes we underestimate the strength and love that those in our lives have. Understand that this will not be an easy conversation, and allow your family to process. Do not get upset if their initial reaction does not go the way you plan in your mind. Honesty is key.