General peer-support guidance. Not counselling, legal advice or crisis care. This content has not received independent clinical review.
Is this about you?
I’m Worried About My Drug Use →Before you begin
The aim is an honest conversation that opens a route to help. Humiliation and labels can close that door.
Deal with immediate danger first
Call 000 if you suspect an overdose, particularly if he is unresponsive, has abnormal breathing, a seizure or severe chest pain. Follow the call-taker’s instructions. Do not leave him to sleep it off. Stay if it is safe, and tell responders what you know about substances taken. Do not make him vomit or give food or drink.
If he is threatening or violent, move to safety and call 000 when there is immediate danger. Do not try to physically overpower him.
Talk when he is sober and it is safe
Use observations, not accusations:
“You missed work twice, and last weekend you seemed really unwell. I’m worried about what’s happening with the drugs. How are you seeing it?”
Avoid arguing while he is intoxicated. You do not need to prove a diagnosis before seeking advice yourself.
Offer support with clear limits
“I’ll help you find support or get to an appointment. I won’t buy drugs, lend money for them or cover up unsafe behaviour.”
Offer what you can sustain. Do not put yourself, children or other people at risk to show loyalty. Do not become his only source of help or promise secrecy about immediate danger.
If he refuses help, you can keep your boundary and leave the door open: “I’m still willing to help you contact someone.” You can also seek advice for yourself.
Help him reach the right service
The National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline, 1800 250 015, offers free, confidential information and support for people concerned about their own or someone else’s use. A GP can also help assess treatment needs.
If the drug use is serious or life-controlling, an honest conversation may lead towards a rehab facility or another structured treatment program. Rehab can provide a safer setting to break the cycle, address withdrawal and triggers with professional support, and begin building routines for life after treatment.
Do not organise a home detox or insist he stop everything suddenly. Withdrawal can require medical support. Encourage him to speak with a doctor or drug and alcohol service about a safe plan and the level of care he needs.
If he agrees to rehab, help him stay committed without taking over. You might help him contact the facility, arrange safe transport, prepare practical items, attend agreed appointments or check in at times he chooses. During and after treatment, encourage follow-up care, peer support and routines that reduce exposure to triggers. Be a mate, not a rescuer: do not supply substances, lend money for drugs, cover up harm or promise more than you can sustain.
Recovery can involve setbacks. If he returns to use, encourage him to contact the treatment team or hotline again rather than disappearing into shame. You can remain supportive while keeping boundaries around safety and behaviour.
A step today: contact the hotline for advice about your concern, even if he is not ready to call.
Optional faith reflection: Pray with him if he wants that. Help with the appointment as well. Dependence is not a problem to reduce to weak faith.
Further guidance
The practical examples and Christian reflections are original writing. These independent sources inform the conversation and safety guidance; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of Men’s Mission Australia.
You do not have to carry this alone.
Reach out to a trusted person and use the specialist support linked in the article when needed. Men’s Mission Australia offers practical information and encouragement; it is not an emergency, counselling or treatment service.
For financial pressure and debt concerns, Hope Economy may offer an additional support pathway. Visit its website for current information about its services. Availability, eligibility and referral processes may vary.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 000. For crisis support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. For general mission enquiries: support@mensmissionaustralia.org. This is a volunteer-run mission. We aim to reply within 24 hours, but responses may take longer. Do not wait for an email reply if urgent help is needed.