Get informed. It will be easy for a cocaine user to dismiss your concerns if you have no facts to back yourself up. Knowledge is power! The more you know, the stronger the case you will have. Read through the rest of this site, pick up an information booklet or call one of the services below to get the facts about cocaine use.
It can be difficult to talk to someone about their drug use or drinking habits without sounding like you are lecturing or judging them. Get yourself in the right frame of mind before you begin. Do not have a discussion in the heat of the moment when you are angry or upset.
Also, getting off to a good start is half the battle. You know the person you are worried about and you will be able to recognise the times when you are both relaxed together, and so can raise the subject. Find a time when you will not be interrupted and you both feel comfortable. This does not mean setting up the situation, more recognising a good opportunity and taking advantage of it.
Talking is a beginning – not an end! Do not approach this as having one big conversation that covers everything, never to be mentioned again. You should aim to create an atmosphere such that the person feels able to talk to you again. If you do not listen to them, you cannot expect them to listen to you.
Listen to what the person has to say. Do not fall into the trap of starting a conversation, but ending it as a telling-off session or a shouting match. Remember they are the only ones who can tell you what is going on in their life, and they are not likely to open up if the only reaction you have is not listening to a word they say.
There are many emotions that can stop us from listening. When you feel angry, worried or anxious about what you are hearing, make a conscious effort to control your feelings and listen.
BUT listening is not the same as agreeing! As you listen, you may realise that you are never going to agree with them. But never stop listening. When they have finished, state briefly and unemotionally what you think they have said. Then get them to agree that you have properly understood. Then tell them that you do understand, but you still do not agree.
Getting information, guidance or advice
If you are worried about someone who uses cocaine, there are services in Trafford that can help.