6 Ways to Support a Co-Worker with Alcohol Use Disorder

Supporting a co-worker with alcohol use disorder (AUD) can be challenging, but your support can make a significant difference in their recovery journey. Here are six ways you can help a colleague struggling with AUD while maintaining a respectful and professional work environment.

Educate Yourself About Alcohol Use Disorder

Understanding AUD is the first step in offering effective support. Learn about the signs and symptoms of AUD, as well as the challenges individuals face when dealing with this disorder. Knowledge about the condition will help you approach the situation with empathy and avoid common misconceptions. Familiarize yourself with your company’s policies on substance abuse and available resources for employees.

Approach with Compassion and Discretion

When you’re ready to talk to your co-worker, choose a private and discreet setting to ensure their privacy. Approach the conversation with compassion and concern, not judgment. Express your observations in a non-accusatory manner, such as, “I’ve noticed you seem stressed lately, and I’m concerned about you.” Make it clear that your intention is to offer support, not to criticize or gossip.

Encourage Professional Help

Encourage your co-worker to seek professional help. Let them know that AUD is a medical condition that often requires treatment from healthcare professionals. Provide information about available resources, such as the company’s employee assistance program (EAP), counseling services, or local support groups. Offer to assist them in finding these resources or making an appointment if they’re comfortable with it.

Respect Their Privacy

Respect your co-worker’s privacy and confidentiality. Avoid discussing their situation with other colleagues unless they have given you permission to do so. Maintaining their trust is crucial for providing effective support.

 If necessary, encourage them to speak with a supervisor or HR representative about their situation in a confidential manner.

Offer Practical Support

Practical support can make a significant difference for someone struggling with AUD. This might include helping them manage their workload, offering flexibility with deadlines, or simply being a reliable and understanding colleague. Small gestures can provide much-needed encouragement and support.

Be Patient and Encouraging

Recovery from AUD is a long-term process that involves ups and downs. Be patient and offer ongoing encouragement. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and remind them that setbacks are a natural part of recovery.

Let them know that you believe in their ability to overcome the challenges they face.

Avoid Caffeine and Sugar

Excessive caffeine and sugar can interfere with your recovery by causing energy spikes and crashes. Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages like coffee and soda, and reduce your consumption of sugary snacks and desserts. Opt for herbal teas and naturally sweetened foods instead.

Supporting a co-worker with alcohol use disorder requires compassion, understanding, and discretion. By educating yourself about AUD, approaching the situation with empathy, encouraging professional help, respecting their privacy, offering practical support, and being patient and encouraging, you can play a crucial role in their recovery journey. Remember, your support can make a significant difference in helping your co-worker achieve and maintain sobriety while fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

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Phillip Olivas

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