Signs of Cocaine Use in a Family Member & How to Help

By | June 3rd, 2026

When you love someone, you notice the little things. A change in their laugh, a new habit, or a distance in their eyes that wasn’t there before. Sometimes, a quiet worry starts to grow when those small changes become more frequent and concerning. You might feel like you’re walking on eggshells, unsure if you’re overreacting or if your gut is telling you something is seriously wrong. Recognizing the signs of cocaine use in a family member isn’t about jumping to conclusions or placing blame. It’s about understanding what to look for so you can approach the situation with compassion and clarity, turning your worry into informed, loving action.

Key Takeaways

• Look for Patterns, Not Single Signs: The indicators of cocaine use often appear as a combination of physical, behavioral, and psychological changes. Pay attention to the overall picture, such as sudden weight loss paired with social withdrawal and intense mood swings, to better understand the situation.
• Lead with Love, Not Blame: When you talk to a loved one, approach the conversation with compassion. Use “I” statements to express your concern, choose a calm and private moment when they are sober, and frame the discussion around your care for their well being, not judgment.
• Recovery Involves the Whole Family: Supporting a loved one is a long-term process that requires you to care for yourself, too. You can be an effective ally by participating in family therapy, setting healthy boundaries, and seeking your own support to avoid burnout.

What Are the Physical Signs of Cocaine Use?

When you’re worried about a loved one, you start paying closer attention to the small details. Sometimes, the first clues that something is wrong are physical. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant, and its use can leave noticeable traces on a person’s body and appearance. These changes can be subtle at first, but they often become more apparent over time.

Recognizing these signs isn’t about jumping to conclusions. It’s about gathering information so you can approach the situation with care and understanding. If you’re noticing some of these physical changes in a family member, it might be a signal that they need support. Understanding what to look for is the first step toward helping them find a path to healing and recovery.

Changes in Eyes, Nose, and Skin

Some of the most common physical indicators of cocaine use involve the face. You might notice that your loved one has unusually large or dilated pupils, even in a brightly lit room. Their eyes may also appear red or bloodshot. Because cocaine is often snorted, it can cause frequent issues with the nose, such as a constant runny nose that seems like a never-ending cold, frequent sniffing, or even nosebleeds. In some cases, you might see a white powdery residue around their nostrils. If the drug is smoked, it can also lead to burned lips or fingertips. Observing these signs can be unsettling, but they are important pieces of the puzzle when you’re trying to understand what’s happening and how to find appropriate treatment.

Shifts in Weight and Appetite

Cocaine acts as a strong appetite suppressant. One of the more alarming signs for family members is often a sudden and significant drop in weight. Your loved one might seem to have no interest in food, skip meals, and lose weight quickly without trying. This happens because the drug speeds up the body’s metabolism while simultaneously curbing hunger. Over time, this can lead to malnourishment and a generally frail appearance. Rebuilding physical health is a crucial part of recovery, which is why programs like Recover Strong focus on using exercise and nutrition to help heal both the body and the brain.

Restlessness and Physical Agitation

As a stimulant, cocaine puts the body into overdrive. This can manifest as extreme restlessness or hyperactivity. A person using cocaine may seem unable to sit still, constantly fidgeting, pacing, or moving around. They might talk excessively and seem to have boundless energy. Paradoxically, they may also appear exhausted or worn out, even without much physical exertion. This is because the stimulant effects can disrupt normal sleep patterns, leading to a cycle of artificial energy followed by a crash. This physical agitation is a direct result of the drug’s effect on the central nervous system, an issue that can be addressed through dedicated addiction therapy.

What Behavioral Changes Should I Look For?

Beyond physical symptoms, some of the most painful signs of cocaine use involve changes in a person’s behavior and personality. You might feel confused or hurt when a loved one suddenly acts like a stranger. It’s important to remember that these shifts are often driven by the substance, not a change in their feelings for you. Noticing these patterns is the first step toward understanding what’s happening and figuring out how you can help. These changes often fall into a few key areas: their relationships, their social circles, and their handling of money and responsibilities.

Withdrawing From Family and Responsibilities

One of the most common behavioral signs is a slow retreat from daily life. Your loved one might start pulling away from you and other family members, avoiding conversations, or skipping family events they used to enjoy. This withdrawal is often paired with noticeable mood swings. They may seem irritable, angry, or sad for no clear reason, especially when they aren’t using. You might also notice they have a harder time with memory or focusing on tasks. When someone you care about starts to isolate themselves, it can strain your relationship, which is why family therapy is often a key part of the healing process for everyone involved.

Sudden Changes in Friend Groups

Have you noticed your loved one spending time with a completely new crowd? A sudden and dramatic shift in their social circle can be a red flag. This isn’t just about making new friends; it’s often about distancing themselves from long-time friends and family who might question their substance use. They may start hanging out with people who also use drugs, creating an environment that enables the behavior. This new group can become their primary source of social interaction, causing them to pull away even further from their established support system. Rebuilding positive peer connections is a vital part of recovery, often through structured programs like group therapy.

Financial Issues and Secretive Behavior

Cocaine use is an expensive habit that can quickly create financial instability. You may notice your loved one is constantly short on cash, asking to borrow money without a clear explanation, or falling behind on bills. This financial strain often goes hand-in-hand with secretive actions. They might lie about where they’ve been or how they’re spending their money. When confronted, they may become defensive or angry. This secrecy is a way to hide the extent of their use and protect it from interference. If you see these signs, it may be time to learn more about professional addiction therapy and the paths to recovery.

Psychological and Mood-Related Signs of Cocaine Use

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant, and its effects on a person’s mood and mental state can feel like a rollercoaster for everyone involved. One minute, your loved one might seem on top of the world, and the next, they could be anxious, irritable, or withdrawn. These dramatic shifts are a direct result of how the drug interacts with the brain’s chemistry. Understanding this cycle of highs and lows is a crucial first step in recognizing the psychological grip of cocaine use and knowing when to seek help.

The Highs: Euphoria, Excess Energy, and Talkativeness

When someone uses cocaine, they often experience an intense rush of euphoria. They might seem unusually happy, confident, and full of energy. Because cocaine is a stimulant, it can make a person extremely talkative, jumping from one topic to the next without pausing. You may also notice they don’t seem to need much sleep or food, and they might have an inflated sense of their own abilities. While this can look like a simple good mood, the intensity and suddenness of this state are key indicators. This artificial high is what makes the substance so appealing and is a core part of the cycle that addiction treatment aims to address.

The Lows: Irritability, Anxiety, and Paranoia

The intense high from cocaine is always temporary, and what follows can be just as intense in the opposite direction. As the drug’s effects begin to fade, your loved one may become extremely irritable, anxious, or agitated. They might snap at small things or seem restless and on edge. In some cases, this can escalate into paranoia, a deeply distressing state where they may feel suspicious of everyone, believing people are out to get them. These feelings can be frightening to witness and are a sign that professional support is needed. Different forms of addiction therapy can help individuals develop coping mechanisms for this anxiety and paranoia.

The Crash: What Happens When the High Fades

After the high and the subsequent anxiety wear off, a “crash” often follows. This period is marked by profound exhaustion, depression, and a general lack of interest in anything. Your loved one might sleep for long periods and seem completely drained of energy and motivation. This happens because the brain’s supply of feel-good chemicals has been depleted, leading to a deep physical and emotional low. This uncomfortable crash is a powerful driver of the addiction cycle, as the person may feel an intense urge to use again just to escape these feelings. Structured recovery programs provide the routine and support needed to break this pattern.

What Is Cocaine Paraphernalia?

When you’re worried that a loved one might be using cocaine, discovering certain objects can feel confusing and alarming. The term “paraphernalia” refers to any equipment or accessory used to prepare or consume drugs. Finding these items doesn’t automatically confirm your fears, but it can be a significant piece of the puzzle, especially when you notice them alongside behavioral or physical changes. Understanding what to look for can help you see the situation more clearly. Different items are associated with different methods of use, from snorting to smoking or injecting.

Items for Snorting

Snorting is one of the most common ways people use powdered cocaine. To do this, the powder is typically arranged into fine lines on a hard, flat surface. You might find small mirrors, glass panes, or even smartphone screens that have white powder residue on them. Razor blades or credit cards are often used to chop the cocaine and form the lines. For inhaling, people frequently use rolled-up dollar bills, hollowed-out pens, or cut plastic straws. Finding these items, especially in combination, can be a strong indicator of cocaine use. If these discoveries are causing you distress, remember that compassionate addiction therapy is available to help both your loved one and your family.

Items for Storing and Preparing

Cocaine is often sold and stored in small, discreet containers. You might come across tiny plastic baggies, sometimes with distinct designs, or small, folded pieces of paper called “bindles.” Small glass vials or capsules are also used to hold the powder. Finding these items, even if they are empty, suggests that drugs may have been present. As mentioned, flat surfaces like mirrors and sharp objects like razor blades are part of the preparation process. You may also find small spoons or scoops used for measuring and handling the powder. Noticing these objects hidden away in a bedroom, car, or backpack is a valid reason for concern.

Items for Smoking or Injecting

While snorting is common, some people smoke or inject cocaine for a more intense, rapid high. Paraphernalia for smoking crack cocaine includes glass pipes (which may look like a straight tube with a screen), lighters, and pieces of steel wool used as a filter. Burn marks on a person’s lips or fingers can also be a physical sign of smoking. For injection, the items are different. You might find syringes or needles, spoons with burn marks on the bottom from heating the drug, and tourniquets like rubber tubing or belts used to make veins more accessible. Finding these items often points to a more severe level of use, which may require structured support from one of our treatment programs.

Could These Signs Point to Something Else?

It’s a fair question to ask. When you see a loved one struggling, it’s natural to search for answers, but it’s also important not to jump to conclusions. The truth is, many of the physical, behavioral, and psychological signs associated with cocaine use can also be symptoms of other serious issues. Conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, severe anxiety, or even extreme stress from work or life changes can cause similar shifts in mood, energy, and behavior.

For example, a person might pull away from friends and family or have trouble remembering things and focusing when they’re dealing with a mental health condition. Significant behavioral changes, like sudden irritability or secrecy, aren’t always tied to substance use. They could be signs that a person feels overwhelmed, ashamed, or unable to cope with something happening in their life. Financial trouble could stem from a job loss, and a lack of interest in old hobbies could be a classic sign of depression.

The key is to look at the whole picture rather than focusing on a single sign. Is there a pattern? Are you seeing a combination of physical, behavioral, and psychological changes? Ultimately, your goal isn’t to become a detective and prove a specific diagnosis. Your goal is to recognize that someone you care about is in pain. These signs are signals that they need support, regardless of the underlying cause. Approaching the situation with open-ended concern for their well-being is always the best first step. A professional can help identify the root of the issue, whether it involves substance use or another mental health challenge, and guide you both toward a path of healing.

How Does Cocaine Affect the Brain and Body?

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that creates intense, short-lived effects by speeding up the central nervous system. It works by changing the brain’s reward pathways, which is why it can be so addictive. Understanding what it does to a person both immediately and over time can help you recognize the seriousness of the situation and see why professional support is so important. The effects are not just about the “high”; they impact a person’s entire physical and mental well-being.

The drug can be snorted, injected, or smoked, with each method affecting how quickly the high begins and how long it lasts. Regardless of how it is used, cocaine puts significant strain on the body and mind. The cycle of use often involves chasing the initial feeling of euphoria, which can lead to increasingly dangerous patterns. Recognizing these effects is the first step toward understanding the need for compassionate, evidence-based treatment.

Short-Term Effects

When someone uses cocaine, it triggers a flood of dopamine, a chemical in the brain associated with pleasure and reward. This causes the immediate “high” and a rush of energy. You might notice someone becoming extremely talkative, excited, and overly confident. Physically, their pupils may look large, and they might have a rapid heart rate, muscle twitches, or feel restless.

However, these euphoric feelings are often paired with less desirable effects like anxiety, paranoia, and irritability. Some people may feel sick to their stomach or develop a fever and sweats. Because the high is so brief, a person may feel a strong urge to use more right away to avoid the “crash” that follows. This cycle is what makes the substance so addictive and difficult to stop without support from specialized addiction therapy.

Long-Term Health Consequences

Repeated cocaine use can cause severe and sometimes permanent damage to the brain and body. The strain on the cardiovascular system can lead to serious heart problems, a weakened heart muscle, or even a stroke. Over time, the body’s organs can suffer, potentially leading to kidney failure or lasting muscle damage. The brain is also at risk, with long-term use contributing to cognitive issues, persistent anxiety, and other serious mental health challenges.

It is critical to remember that addiction is a medical condition, not a character flaw. The changes cocaine makes to the brain are real and powerful, but they do not have to be permanent. With the right support and a structured recovery plan, healing is absolutely possible. Our programs are designed to help individuals rebuild their health and find a path forward.

Common Myths About Cocaine Addiction

When you’re watching someone you care about struggle with cocaine use, it’s easy to get caught up in misconceptions. These myths often come from a place of fear, frustration, and a deep desire to understand what’s happening. But believing them can create distance and make it harder to offer the right kind of support. Understanding the truth behind cocaine addiction is a powerful first step toward helping your loved one and yourself.

Addiction is a complex health issue, and separating fact from fiction allows you to approach the situation with clarity and compassion. It helps you see that your loved one’s actions aren’t a reflection of their character or their love for you, but rather symptoms of a disease that requires professional care. By learning the realities of addiction, you can find more effective ways to communicate, set boundaries, and encourage them toward a path of healing. Let’s walk through some of the most common myths and replace them with the facts.

Myth: “It’s a willpower problem.”

It’s a common and painful thought: “If they were just stronger, they could stop.” But addiction isn’t a weakness or a moral failing. It’s a chronic disease that changes brain chemistry, making it incredibly difficult to quit through sheer force of will. The brain’s reward system is rewired to prioritize the drug above all else, overpowering a person’s self-control. Telling someone to “just stop” is like telling someone with diabetes to “just control their blood sugar.” It ignores the underlying biology and the need for structured, evidence-based addiction therapy. True recovery comes from treating the disease, not from shaming someone for its symptoms.

Myth: “They would stop if they really loved me.”

This is one of the most heartbreaking myths for families. It’s natural to feel that if your love was enough, your family member would choose you over the drug. The reality is that addiction can hijack a person’s priorities and decision-making abilities. While your love and support are vital, they can’t cure the disease itself. In fact, family and friends are often a huge source of strength for someone seeking recovery. Learning how to talk to a family member about their substance use is a crucial skill. Your relationship can be a powerful motivator for them to seek help, but the addiction itself requires professional treatment to manage.

Myth: “It only affects the person using it.”

Substance use is never a solo act; it sends ripples through the entire family and community. The emotional toll of worry and stress, the financial strain, and the breakdown of trust affect everyone. Cocaine use impacts a person’s behavior and mental state, which inevitably changes their relationships with those around them. As experts point out, addiction is a medical condition that has widespread consequences, not just a personal problem. That’s why healing often involves the whole family. Participating in family therapy can help everyone process the impact, learn new ways to communicate, and build a supportive environment for long-term recovery.

Myth: “Rehab is a one-time fix.”

Many people think of rehab as a 30-day program that “cures” addiction. In reality, recovery is a lifelong journey, and rehab is the first step. It’s where your loved one builds a foundation for a new way of life. A comprehensive treatment plan provides the essential tools for success, including safe detoxification, individual and group therapy, and a solid plan for what comes next. Recovery doesn’t end when a person leaves a treatment facility. It requires ongoing commitment and support through aftercare programs, therapy, and peer support groups to maintain sobriety and manage the challenges that will inevitably arise.

How to Talk to a Loved One You’re Worried About

Approaching someone you care about with concerns about their substance use is one of the hardest conversations you’ll ever have. There’s no perfect script, but there are ways to make the conversation more productive and loving. The goal isn’t to fix them in one talk; it’s to open a door, express your concern, and let them know you’re there for them when they’re ready. Remember to lead with compassion, both for them and for yourself. This conversation is a starting point, not a finish line.

Choose the Right Time and Place

Timing is everything. Never try to have this conversation when your loved one is under the influence of cocaine or any other substance. They won’t be able to process what you’re saying, and the discussion can quickly become defensive or volatile. Instead, find a time when they are sober, calm, and clear-headed. Choose a private, comfortable setting where you won’t be interrupted. This shows respect for their privacy and creates a safe space for a difficult topic, making it more likely that they will actually hear your concerns.

Use “I” Statements to Share Your Concerns

How you frame your worries can make all the difference. Avoid accusations that start with “you,” like “You are always…” or “You need to stop…” These statements can make someone feel attacked and immediately put them on the defensive. Instead, use “I” statements to focus on your own feelings and observations. For example, say, “I’m worried because I’ve noticed you seem really anxious lately,” or “I feel scared when you don’t come home at night.” This approach shares your perspective without placing blame, making it easier for them to listen.

Know What to Say (and What to Avoid)

Your words and tone matter deeply. The goal is to show you care, not to shame or judge them. Avoid lecturing, threatening, or making them feel guilty. Instead, calmly and lovingly explain why you are concerned by pointing to specific behaviors you’ve observed. You can say something like, “I care about you so much, and I’m worried about your health because I’ve seen…” Reassure them that you’re bringing this up because you love them and want to support them. These conversations are complex, and learning how to communicate effectively is a skill that can be strengthened through family therapy.

Set Healthy Boundaries with Compassion

Supporting someone with an addiction can be emotionally draining, and it’s easy to fall into patterns of enabling their behavior. It’s vital to set healthy boundaries to protect your own well-being. This doesn’t mean cutting them off, but it does mean deciding what you will and will not do. For example, you can refuse to give them money or make excuses for them. Setting boundaries is not a punishment; it’s an act of self-preservation and can actually help your loved one face the natural consequences of their actions. You don’t have to solve their problems for them.

What to Do If They Aren’t Ready for Help

It’s very common for someone struggling with addiction to be in denial. If your loved one gets angry, shuts down, or refuses to admit there’s a problem, try not to get discouraged. Stay calm and end the conversation before it escalates, but reiterate that you love them and are there for them when they are ready. You’ve planted a seed. The most important thing you can do now is to seek support for yourself. Talking to an addiction professional can give you the tools and guidance you need. If you’re unsure where to turn, you can always contact us for guidance.

How to Support Someone Through Cocaine Recovery

When someone you love enters recovery, your support can make a world of difference. This isn’t about fixing them or controlling their journey; it’s about walking alongside them with compassion and understanding. Your role will shift from crisis management to steady encouragement. It requires patience, strong boundaries, and a commitment to your own well-being. Creating a stable and positive environment can help reinforce the new, healthy patterns they are learning in treatment. Remember, recovery is a process with ups and downs, and your consistent, loving presence is a powerful anchor. Here are five ways you can offer meaningful support as your loved one heals.

Educate Yourself About Addiction

One of the most powerful first steps you can take is to learn about addiction as a medical condition. Addiction is a disease of the brain, not a moral failing or a lack of willpower. Understanding the science behind how cocaine affects brain chemistry can help you replace judgment with empathy. It helps you see the behaviors associated with addiction as symptoms of an illness, not personal attacks. This knowledge equips you to better understand the challenges of recovery and the importance of professional treatment. When you grasp the nature of the disease, you can become a more effective and compassionate ally for your loved one.

Participate in Family Therapy

Addiction doesn’t just affect one person; it impacts the entire family system. Participating in therapy together creates a safe space to heal relationships, improve communication, and learn new ways of interacting. Family therapy allows everyone to address resentments, fears, and dysfunctional patterns in a structured environment guided by a professional. It’s a chance for you to ask questions, express your feelings, and learn how to set healthy boundaries. This collaborative approach helps rebuild trust and ensures that the home environment supports long-term recovery, making the entire family unit stronger and more resilient.

Encourage Healthy Habits and Routines

As your loved one builds a new life, you can support them by encouraging positive routines. Recovery involves replacing old, destructive habits with new, healthy ones. This can be as simple as offering to join them for a walk, sharing a healthy meal, or just being a reliable presence. Physical activity is especially beneficial, as it helps heal the brain and body. Programs like our Recover Strong program use exercise to rebuild confidence and resilience. By championing these new habits, you help reinforce the skills they are learning and show your support for their new, substance-free lifestyle.

Take Care of Your Own Mental Health

Supporting someone through recovery can be emotionally and mentally taxing. It’s easy to get so focused on their well-being that you neglect your own. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing your own mental health is not selfish; it’s essential. Make time for activities that recharge you, connect with your own friends, and consider seeking individual therapy to process your own feelings. Taking care of yourself prevents burnout and allows you to offer more consistent, grounded support to your loved one. Your well-being matters just as much.

Find Resources and Support for Your Family

You don’t have to go through this alone. There are many resources available to help families affected by addiction. Look for local support groups like Al-Anon or Nar-Anon, where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through. It’s also important to understand the practical side of treatment, including the costs and logistics. Many people worry about how to pay for care, but there are often more options than you think. Taking steps to verify insurance can clarify your options and make the path forward feel much more manageable.

Finding Cocaine Addiction Treatment in Hawaii

Deciding to look for help is a powerful first step, and thankfully, you have options. Recovery isn’t a one-size-fits-all process, and the right program will meet you where you are. In Hawaii, treatment for cocaine addiction focuses on giving you the tools and support to build a new foundation for your life, addressing both the physical and psychological sides of substance use. It’s about finding a path forward that feels right for you or your loved one.

What Are the Options for Treatment?

Effective cocaine addiction treatment often combines several approaches to support long-term healing. Behavioral therapies are a cornerstone of this process. For example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you identify and change the thought patterns and behaviors tied to substance use. It’s a practical way to develop new coping skills for handling triggers and stress.

Peer support groups also play a vital role, offering a sense of community and shared understanding that can make you feel less alone. While there are no specific medications approved to treat cocaine addiction, some can help manage withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring mental health conditions. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provides a confidential treatment locator to help you find accredited programs and resources in your area.

How Mana Recovery Center Supports Healing

At Mana Recovery, we believe healing happens when you feel seen, respected, and supported. We create personalized treatment programs because your journey is unique to you. Our approach goes beyond just addressing substance use; we focus on healing the whole person. We integrate evidence-based therapies with physical wellness through our unique Recover Strong program, which uses exercise to help rebuild your brain and body.

We also know that addiction affects the entire family. That’s why we encourage loved ones to participate in the recovery process through family therapy. By working together, families can heal relationships, improve communication, and build a strong support system for the future. Our goal is to provide a structured, compassionate environment where you can regain your strength, confidence, and sense of purpose.

Related Articles

• Cocaine Addiction and Recovery: A Complete Guide
• Does Cocaine Cause Brain Damage? The Sobering Truth
• Meth vs. Coke: Key Differences in Effects & Risks
• Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline: What to Expect Day by Day

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I confront my loved one about cocaine use and I’m wrong? The best approach is to focus on the specific behaviors that worry you, not on an accusation. Instead of saying, “I think you’re using cocaine,” you can say, “I’m worried because I’ve noticed you seem withdrawn and aren’t sleeping.” This opens a conversation about their well-being. If the cause is something else, like severe stress or a mental health issue, you’ve still shown that you care and are there to support them. The goal is to connect and offer help, not to be right about the reason.

Why can’t my loved one just stop using cocaine on their own? Cocaine addiction is a medical condition that physically changes the brain’s chemistry and structure. It rewires the reward pathways, creating an intense compulsion that can override a person’s self-control and best intentions. It is not a matter of willpower or a lack of love for their family. Quitting requires professional support to manage withdrawal, develop new coping strategies, and address the underlying changes in the brain.

How can I support my loved one without enabling their behavior? You can offer support by expressing your love and concern, encouraging them to seek professional help, and being a stable presence in their recovery. Enabling, however, is when you protect them from the natural consequences of their actions, for example, by giving them money, making excuses for their absence, or lying for them. Setting firm but loving boundaries is the key. This protects your own mental health and can help your loved one see the true impact of their substance use.

What makes a cocaine addiction treatment program effective? An effective program treats the whole person, not just the addiction. It should be personalized and use evidence-based therapies, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help individuals build practical coping skills. Great programs also incorporate elements that heal the body, such as exercise and nutrition, and offer family therapy to help repair relationships. The goal is to provide a structured, supportive environment where a person can build a foundation for lasting recovery.

My loved one is refusing help. What can I do now? It is incredibly difficult when someone you care about isn’t ready for help. You cannot force them into recovery. The most important thing you can do is to stop enabling their behavior and start taking care of yourself. Seek support from a therapist or a group like Al-Anon to get guidance and connect with others who understand. Continue to express your love and concern, and let your loved one know that you will be there to support them when they are ready to accept help.