There are very real risks and consequences associated with opioid use and misuse. Keeping your family, friends, and colleagues safe from these dangers starts with having a conversation. Conversations about the risks and dangers associated with opioids will help those around you make informed decisions down the road.

How to talk about opioids

• Keep it casual. A great way to start a conversation is to approach it in a casual way. You could use a news story or recent event as a way to introduce the topic. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a therapy session or an emotionally loaded topic.
• Identify an appropriate time and place. Consider a private setting with limited distractions where you and the person will feel comfortable, such as at home or on a walk.
• Practice active listening. Allow them to share their experiences and show them that you're interested. Listen to what they're saying—and what they aren't saying. Avoid offering advice if they don't directly ask for it. Instead, just be there to hear them out.
• Offer support, not judgment. It's easy to have an immediate and emotional reaction to something a loved one says they are struggling with, but it's important to pause before responding. Think how you can react with compassion. How you listen and respond goes a long way in establishing trust.
• Stay connected. Helping a person doesn't happen overnight. Continue reaching out with offers to listen. Encourage them to talk to a health care professional, spiritual advisor, or other friend if they don't want to talk with you.

During a conversation, remember that simple, encouraging feedback goes a long way in showing support. Here are some examples of what you can say:

• "You're not alone, even if you feel like you are. I'm here for you, and I want to help you in any way I can."
• "It may not seem possible right now, but the pain you are experiencing can get better without opioids."
• "I might not be able to understand exactly what you're going through or how you feel, but I care about you and want to help."

word Choice matters

Words have impact. By changing the words you use, you can help break down negative stereotypes and better approach this sensitive topic.

• Say "misuse" instead of "abuse."
• Say "opioid use disorder" instead of "habit" or "addiction."
• Say "person with an opioid use disorder" instead of "addict," "user," or "junkie."
• Say "person in recovery" instead of "former addict."
• Say "person who previously used opioids" instead of "reformed addict."
• Say in "remission" or "recovery" instead of "clean."