Supporting Others

Stigma has no place. It can:

• Make people feel devalued or excluded
• Lead to unfair judgements being made about people
• Create barriers that actually prevent people from seeking help

By challenging stigma, we Turn on the Light for others to be seen, heard and supported.

• Call our stereotypes when you hear them (they often come from misunderstandings)
• Avoid labelling people
• Focus on the person, not the problem
• Use language that is non-judgemental and inclusive

Supporting people with drug and alcohol issues? Check out the NUAA Language Matters Guide.

Reflection is about slowing down, noticing the positives and learning from challenges.

When supporting someone experiencing drug, alcohol or mental health issues, reflective practice is key.

As yourself:

• Am I challenging stigma and stereotypes?
• How do I respond to people who need help?
• What positive changes did I make or encourage?
• Do I need to debrief with someone or seek support myself?

Listening and responding with care can help to shine a light on where support is needed.

What steps should we take when supporting others? Consider:

1. Creating a safe space – for yourself and the person you are helping.
2. Find a relaxed, comfortable place to talk.
3. Gently mention your concern and changes you’ve noticed.
4. Ask open-ended questions like “what’s been on your mind?”
5. Listen without interrupting. Give the person time and space to communicate.
6. Talk about positive ways to cope.
7. Discuss where to get help and offer to assist the person in this process. You might like to help them make a phone call to a service or look for suitable options together.

An emergency or crisis is any situation where someone’s safety or life is at risk. This can be medical, mental health related or linked to alcohol and other drugs.

• In an emergency, phone Triple Zero (000) for police, fire or ambulance and follow instructions.

Choose support in an emergency:

• Protect yourself and others from immediate danger
• Call Triple Zero (000)
• Stay calm and reassure the person that help is on the way
• Give emergency services clear, honest information, including details about alcohol and/or drug use, current medications, mental health concerns

Champion change afterwards:

• Debrief and talk it through with someone you trust
• Seek additional support for yourself if you need it
• Build your skills: consider learning First Aid or Mental Health First Aid

Championing change is about advocacy, action, standing up for yourself and others.

You can be a Champion for Change by:

• Calling out stigma
• Being a good role model
• Respectfully helping and supporting others
• Sharing your learnings