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wellwellwellnezSenior Contributor
This is all happening now in real-time. I know someone that's hurtin' themself. Trying to stop. Got a lot going on while also processing trauma. Doesn't know who to trust. I'm no picture of sobriety and don't feel particularly qualified as a drug-counsellor but this person is dealing with serious stuff and waving the "help me" flag.
Any tips/resources? I feel like I need to update my do's and don'ts in these situations.
In response to: I got a friend with a drug problem
Unknown userMember
Hello from the Lived Experience Forum! You look kind of familiar 😉. This is seriously like the second time I've replied to a post on here.
To sum up my point in seven words, "you can't pour from an empty cup."
It doesn't even matter how "bad" your situation is or otherwise, I do not recommend putting yourself into a position that you're uncomfortable with in that regard.
Trying to help someone you can't has it's own unique risks.
For example, if he does well and then he relapses or something happens, there is a risk you could blame yourself for it, and that can start a thought spiral within YOU, even though HE was the one that was really affected by it.
There are certainly things you can do, but that really depends on what he would like, and it sounds like he's not ready to identify what he needs to get better.
In terms of resources, I am not entirely sure how the process works, but I found two good places to go.
Funnily enough, I used a website to find those resources, and they also recommended SANE 😂.
All the best!
Finally, I think it's important to remember that it's quite the testament to you that you are willing to help him. Really, though, that's why you should consider yourself first, because you deserve to be healthy.
@wellwellwellnez .
In response to: Re: I got a friend with a drug problem
wellwellwellnezSenior Contributor
Totally good advice. Addiction and attachment are basically cousins in the brain. I have, not too recently, suffered from "empty cup syndrome" and still quite convinced that running on a dry cup helps no-one. It's been a balance for sure ('cause I've also gotta work on my "tiny world syndrome".)
Other people (in this case me) can be mentors and allies but in these cases people also have to be their own heroes. It's the only sustainable way.
In response to: Re: I got a friend with a drug problem
AppleblossomSenior Contributor
@wellwellwellnez
@Former-Member
Cant say much. Just Yes. Look after yourself as you reach out ot others.
Apple
In response to: I got a friend with a drug problem
AussieRechargerSenior Contributor
@wellwellwellnez
Try to look past the drugs... It sounds like the drugs are a reaction and not a cause. Let them know that they should get treatment for the causes/trauma.
I also agree, look after yourself. It's not your problem to solve but the best thing you might be doing is just being an ear to help the person talk to and letting their brain process all the events that have occurred.
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Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
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