Conversation Starters

Confidential Referral Form

Youth

Addiction can start at a very young age, sometimes as young as 12. In fact, 50% of high school students have taken an illegal drug by their senior year. Have the conversation early to get ahead of addiction and support those in need.

Adults

Adults are more likely to suffer from an opioid addiction. Having a conversation with an adult may seem more difficult, but it is just as important. Our programs are designed to support families with prevention and treatment, and we have certified counselors available to help guide you every step of the way.

Schools and Communities

Addiction can start at a very young age, sometimes as young as 12. In fact, 50% of high school students have taken an illegal drug by their senior year. Have the conversation early to get ahead of addiction and support those in need.

Step 1

Recognize Misuse.

Have you observed the following traits in your friend or loved one?

  • Lower energy than normal
  • Less social
  • Irritable or moody
  • Frequent confusion, slurred speech or intoxicated behavior
  • Slow breathing
  • Increased anger and/or violence
  • Erratic behavior
  • Signs of drug use or abuse (pills, needles, etc.)
  • Fingernails or lips have blue or purple cast/haze
  • Pale face

Write down your observations about your friend's or loved one's behavior that leads you to believe there might be an opioid problem.

Consider this before you have the conversation:

  • You don't have to have the conversation until you are ready. It's OK to just start preparing for the conversation.
  • You do not have to handle this by yourself! If you think you need support in starting this conversation, please reach out to someone you trust.
  • Start by writing a letter to yourself or to that person.
  • Practice the conversation with another person.
  • Plan for a series of conversations, not just a one-time discussion.

Step 2

Prepare.

Find the best time and place to talk.

  • Plan the conversation for a specific date.
  • Consider the best place to have the conversation. You may want privacy away from other people. Pick a setting that is comfortable for both of you.
  • Make sure the person is not under the influence during your talk.
  • Stay in a calm and collected mood without feeling judgmental or self-righteous. It’s important to come from a place of empathy in order to effectively connect with the person you’re trying to help. Manage the tone of your conversation using positive, caring words.

Step 3

Take action.

Start the conversation with:

"I've noticed some things lately that I would like to discuss with you."

Share your observations, one at a time:

"I'm bringing this up today because I care so much about you. more than anything, I just want you to be OK, and lately I've been worried you're not. I've noticed some changes in the way you've been acting. For example, it seems like you've (fill in the blanks with observations). Have you noticed how big a change this is for you? What do you think is behind that?

If the person is defensive, make a decision on whether it is worth it to continue the conversation or to pause until a later date. If you pause the conversation, say something like:

" Thank you for hearing my concern(s). I love/care about you and will always be here if you want to talk or if you need anything."

If they seem open to the conversation but are unable or not willing to identify the problem, you can bring it up in a neutral, non-confrontational tone:

“You know, all of these symptoms and behaviors we’ve been talking about seem to line up with what happens when there’s a problem with taking too many opioids. I know you were using painkillers for a while. Do you think this might have become a problem for you?”

If they strongly refuse to acknowledge this could be the cause if the problem, you can choose to let it go and continue the exploratory conversation in order to increase awareness of the problem:

" What do you think is causing this/these issues?"

Step 4

Support.

Re-iterate your love and concern for the individual and that you are wanting to help them. Ask if there are any specific ways they’d like you to help. Make a plan together.

If you have any concerns that you or others may be in imminent danger (i.e., in need of immediate medical attention) or that the person you’re worried about may pose a threat to others due to their behavior (i.e., driving while under the influence, carrying a gun, expressing violent urges), please call 911. If it means saving their life or the lives of others who could be victims of reckless or violent behavior, it’s best to be safe and set necessary boundaries.

More information and resources