Need advice on talking to a friend with a drink problem

[AmItoofatforthis]

This is my first post in this area of Mumsnet but it's become my first port of call when I need advice and I am definitely out of my depth here.

I have a friend with a drink problem. I knew she liked a drink but a couple of recent events have put into perspective how serious this actually is. Without going into detail she has been taking risks that could put both her and others in danger and I feel I have a responsibility to do something before something tragic occurs. How do I go about having this conversation? While she is starting to admit that her drinking is not ideal, I suspect that she is not being honest with herself about the extent of the problem and will minimise. I want to be supportive but equally make 100% clear that what she has been doing needs to stop.

Has anyone been through similar who can offer advice or point me towards some resources?

AA do online support for family and friends. They will be able to advise

www.al-anonuk.org.uk/

If she’s taking risks -for example- such as driving, then you need to report to the police when you know she is on the road. Being stopped by them may give her the shake up she needs -and save someone’s life.

Thanks Iam From what I read AlAnon seemed to be mainly about dealing with the effect of the drinker on their friends and family rather than focussing on helping the drinker, but maybe they will have some advice on how to direct the person drinking towards the help they need too.

And of course I would never allow her to get in the car if she had been drinking and I was there.

I think you have to be clear and direct. Am sure she knows that she has a problem already. She may deny it or get angry. But that doesn't change the fundamental truth.
Then I would give her a helpline number to call and step back from
the situation. It has to come from her - you can't force her to take action.