How Do You Help Someone With Depression And Drug Abuse?
A person who abuses drugs often suffers from depression as well. The drug abuse could be a way to self-medicate in order to alleviate the depression. It could also be the cause of the depression as the person realizes that he is addicted and feels powerless to overcome the problem. Either way, you cannot change the person’s behavior, but there are ways you can help. When discussing the issue with the person, stick to facts and specific examples rather than making accusations. For example, don’t say, “You’re so lazy. You never do anything, and the drugs are turning you into a jerk.” This will put him on the defensive, and it doesn’t give concrete information. Instead say, “I am concerned because you haven’t left the house in three days, and you only leave your room to eat. When I try to talk to you, you ignore me and go back into your room and slam the door.” These ae specific examples, not vague accusations. Instead of telling the person what you see, ask her questions to help her see
