Looking Out for Friends and Getting Help

The most important skill in this module is knowing what to do when a friend is in trouble. Acting quickly and calmly can save a life, and asking for help is always the right call.

When it is an emergency

• Call emergency services if someone cannot be woken, has slow or irregular breathing, has had a seizure, has stopped breathing, or you think they have alcohol poisoning (NHS).
• UAE numbers: 999 police, 998 ambulance, 997 fire. In the UK, 999. Check the local number wherever you study.
• Tell the call handler exactly what you know, including anything the person has taken. Their aim is to help, and the call handler will tell you what to do.
• The NHS says someone with alcohol poisoning needs to go to hospital to be monitored, so wait with them for the ambulance.

While you wait for help

• Stay with them. The NHS warns that someone who is very drunk can choke on vomit or stop breathing.
• If they are awake, sit them up. If they have passed out, put them in the recovery position and check their breathing (see the First Aid module).
• If they are conscious, can swallow and are not vomiting, give sips of water, and keep them warm with a jacket or blanket.
• Do not give coffee, more alcohol or food, do not put them in a cold shower, and do not try to make them sick (NHS).
• Never leave someone to 'sleep it off' alone.

When the worry is longer term

• Signs a friend may be struggling include drinking, using or gambling more, money problems, missing lectures, secrecy or mood changes.
• Choose a calm, private moment: 'I've noticed you've been missing lectures and you seem stressed. I care about you. How are things really?'
• Listen more than you speak, and avoid lecturing or labelling.
• Offer to help them find support, such as going with them to the university wellbeing service or a doctor.
• If they are at risk of harm, do not keep it secret. Tell a trusted adult, university staff or emergency services.

Where to get help

• UAE: the National Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) in Abu Dhabi runs treatment and rehabilitation, including an outpatient clinic, for people with alcohol or substance use problems.
• UK drugs: a GP is a good place to start, or you can approach a local drug service yourself; FRANK (0300 123 6600) can talk you through your options (NHS).
• UK gambling: National Gambling Helpline, 0808 8020 133, free and 24 hours (NHS).
• UK emotional support: Samaritans, 116 123, free, day or night, 365 days a year.
• Wherever you are: your university's welfare or counselling team, your doctor, or a trusted family member.

Looking after yourself too

• Supporting a friend can be stressful; you are not responsible for fixing everything.
• Talk to someone yourself, such as a counsellor or a trusted adult, if it is affecting you.
• Set limits: you can care about someone without covering for them or lending money you cannot afford.