For A Loved One

Worried about someone you care about and not sure what to do? This page gives quick guidance on spotting addiction, helping without enabling, and next steps for treatment.​

Signs They May Need Help

  • Big changes in mood, energy, or sleep linked to substance use.​
  • Pulling away from family, work, or school.
  • Money issues, secrecy, or legal problems.

If several of these are showing up, it may be time to talk about getting help.​

Help Without Enabling

  • Set clear limits instead of covering for missed bills, jobs, or responsibilities.​
  • Avoid giving money; offer rides or support for treatment instead.
  • Keep conversations calm, honest, and focused on concern, not blame.

Learning the difference between support and enabling protects both you and your loved one.​

Intervention & Family Support

  • A professional intervention can help when your loved one refuses treatment.​
  • A trained specialist guides what to say and how to say it, keeping things safe and on track.​
  • Family therapy and education help you set boundaries and stay involved in recovery.​

You do not have to do this alone—reach out to discuss intervention and family support options.​


The image shows The Joint Commission’s gold seal of national quality approval next to the blue and yellow Joint Commission logo and the text “The Joint Commission Gold Seal Of Approval™.”.
Logo of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers, featuring geometric shapes forming a cube on the left and the organizations name in capital letters on the right.
Logo for the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, featuring a red phoenix inside a blue keystone shape, with the department name in blue text to the right.
Blue logo with a stylized “N” inside a circle, a ribbon reading “Proud Member NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals,” and large blue text “NAADAC” on a light background.
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