How to Approach an Alcoholic Parent about Seeking Professional Treatment

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Talking to a friend or co-worker about their problem with alcohol can feel intimidating. But one of the most difficult conversations of all is when a child must talk to a parent about their drinking problem and need for treatment.

Parents may dismiss their child’s concerns, believing the child doesn’t understand what they are going through or insisting that their drinking is none of their business.  While this conversation is never easy, there are thoughtful and effective ways for a child to approach an alcoholic parent about seeking help.

A Sober Talk

Determining the right time to have the sober talk can be as important as finding the right words to say. Because the ability to think clearly is impacted and emotions are heightened when a person drinks, finding a time when they are sober is usually the best time to approach this conversation. It is also a good idea to find a quiet, private setting without interruptions to help encourage an open conversation. Knowing what you want to say ahead of time can help to make your approach seem less like blame or criticism.

Consequences without Lecturing

When discussing the problem, it is important to address the consequences of their drinking without making it sound like a lecture. Talking about how their drinking is hurting them and others, puts a focus on the psychological distress and emotional turmoil that they are likely to be feeling. A lecture may make them feel worse about their problem or lead to an argument, which will do nothing to help convince them to seek professional help.

Try to Avoid Judgment

Often, panic can lead people to start a confrontation, thinking it will help, but it usually does more harm than good, making the person more defensive or denying their problem.  Keep in mind that denial is one of the most common symptoms of addiction when confronting a parent about their drinking. Those who are treated with respect and support are far less likely to remain in denial than someone who is confronted or ordered to seek treatment.

According to the SAMHSA, addiction can bring about feelings of shame, guilt, anger, anxiety, fear, loss, isolation, and grief. By using nonjudgmental and supportive language, a child can better show concern and encourage recovery.

Instead of labeling their parent or giving orders, the child should calmly express their worries and gently suggest seeking professional help.

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Call a Professional

If every attempt to convince the parent to seek help has failed, it may be time to call in an interventionist. These professionals are specially trained and have experience in helping addicts to realize the consequences of continuing with their addiction and the benefits of seeking treatment. For more information on how an interventionist can help, call 800-948-8417 Sponsored .

Convincing an authority figure to seek treatment is very difficult. Denial may be one of the hardest obstacles to overcome, but there are ways of convincing the alcoholic parent to seek professional treatment. By having the conversation when they are sober, explaining the consequences without falling into a lecture and avoiding judgmental responses, the child is far more likely to convince their parents to seek the treatment they need.

If your parent(s) are suffering from an alcohol addiction, call 800-948-8417 Sponsored to speak with someone who can answer your questions and help connect you with the support you and your family need.