For families & loved ones

What should I say?

Choose what is happening. Read a few ways to respond with care and a clear boundary, then use the words that fit your relationship. You do not have to get the conversation perfect.

Two people having a calm conversation at a table

1. Choose a situation

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Make the words yours

Keep what sounds natural. A useful response usually names care, a concrete concern, and a limit or next step. You may need to pause or try again later.

These examples do not mean you must stay in an unsafe conversation or take responsibility for another person’s choices.

Support for the whole family

You can seek guidance even when your loved one does not want help. A family counsellor, peer group, or service can help you think through safety, boundaries, and your own needs.

Find help near you → · Free resources →

More support for families

Supporting Someone You LoveOptional paid workbook for boundaries and support →When They Come HomeOptional paid workbook for the transition home →When They Do Not Want HelpOptional paid workbook for care and limits →

How this tool was informed

These are original example phrases, informed by guidance on calm timing, nonjudgmental questions, specific concerns, realistic limits, family self-care, and emergency response. They are educational examples, not individualized counselling or a guarantee of how someone will respond.