18/08/2026
“How do I even bring it up?” It’s the question we hear most from families — usually after weeks of rehearsing it in the car.
Three things that help:
– Pick a calm, sober moment. Not mid-argument, not mid-drink.
– Describe what you see, not what they are. “I’ve noticed you seem exhausted lately” lands where “you have a problem” bounces off.
– Ask, don’t demand. “How are you doing, really?” leaves a door open. Ultimatums close it.
You won’t say it perfectly, and you don’t need to. You just need to leave the door open, people rarely walk through it the first time.
Many of our first calls come from family members, not the person themselves. If you’d like to talk it through before you say anything at all, call us.
📞 01795 431751 — all calls free and totally confidential.
