Tips for Talking to a Colleague About Substance Abuse

DO:

Talk Honestly and Candidly in a private space with your colleague or employ an objective third party to help insure that he or she is treated fairly and offered appropriate alternatives.
Describe the Behavior that concerns you while avoiding passing moral judgement or making accusations. You can also offer your colleague options for help such as a referral to a therapist or suggestion that he/she speak with an advocate.

DON'T:

Look the Other Way: Substance abuse issues are not just personal issues, they are a community's problem and a problem for your workplace. If efforts to speak with your colleague do not render results, take the next step and speak with a supervisor or a senior member of your organization.
Likewise, Don't Enable: This behavior includes covering up, picking up extra work, concealing poor work performance, loaning money or protecting them from the consequences of their use.
Don't Let it Continue: If your colleague's behavior continues or escalates to the point where you have serious concerns, you may want to confidentially approach your Human Resource Department. Substance abuse and addiction are health issues that are protected under the Americans With Disabilities Act. Your company may have an Employee Assistance Provider (EAP) that can provide free support and guidance to your colleague.