These effects may last for weeks or months, but they are mostly reversible. First, learn as much about alcohol, alcohol abuse, and alcoholism so that you may be better able to deal with the problems of alcoholism and some of your own feelings about the problem. Next, talk to the person about their behavior changes that result from drinking. Be firm, considerate, single-minded, and focus on the drinking behavior, not the reasons for drinking. Some alcoholics always find a reason to drink.
Alcoholism is a treatable illness.
Since many alcoholics lapse again into heavy drinking, patience and encouragement can help the alcoholic regain sobriety. Finally, remember that the worst thing to do is to ignore the problem and hope that it will go away. The ultimate goal of an intervention is to get the alcoholic into a treatment program. Intervention occurs when the alcoholic person is in denial or does not seem to want to accept any help and loved ones, relatives, and even employers decide that it is time to step in and take action. They do this to help the alcoholic to recover a sober and healthy life.