How to Support a Peer Who's Struggling with Substance Use
Thu Jan 29 2026
Substance use is real in first responder culture. Learn how to support a struggling peer, without enabling, judging, or ignoring the signs.
What do you do when someone you trust starts spiraling, and you suspect it’s more than just stress?
Substance use in first responder culture is more common than we want to admit. But it’s not always easy to talk about. The signs aren’t always obvious. The conversations can feel awkward. And when you’re close to the person, it’s hard to know what to say—or when to say it.
This episode is a practical, honest look at how to support a peer who may be struggling with substance use.
You’ll learn what to look for, how to approach them without judgment, and when to bring in professional help. And if it’s you who’s quietly struggling, we’ll talk about that too, with zero shame.
BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:
Signs and symptoms of substance use among first respondersHow to start a conversation with a peer without making it worseWhen peer support is enough, and when it’s time to referWhat to do if you’re the one struggling
You don’t have to be a counselor to help. You just need to care and know how to step in wisely.
Share This Episode:
https://www.survivingyourshift.com/55
First Responder Treatment Facilities:
Unified Wellness Center: https://unifiedwellnesscenter.com
Throttle and Thrive: https://throttleandthrive.com
First Responder Wellness: https://frhealth.com
Chateau Health & Wellness: https://www.chateaurecovery.com
After Action: https://afteraction.care
IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery: https://www.iaffrecoverycenter.com
Connect with Bart
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bartleger
Facebook Page: facebook.com/survivingyourshift
Website: www.survivingyourshift.com
Want to find out how I can help you build a peer support program in your organization or provide training? Schedule a no-obligation call or Zoom meeting with me here.
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Substance use is real in first responder culture. Learn how to support a struggling peer, without enabling, judging, or ignoring the signs. What do you do when someone you trust starts spiraling, and you suspect it’s more than just stress? Substance use in first responder culture is more common than we want to admit. But it’s not always easy to talk about. The signs aren’t always obvious. The conversations can feel awkward. And when you’re close to the person, it’s hard to know what to say—or when to say it. This episode is a practical, honest look at how to support a peer who may be struggling with substance use. You’ll learn what to look for, how to approach them without judgment, and when to bring in professional help. And if it’s you who’s quietly struggling, we’ll talk about that too, with zero shame. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN: Signs and symptoms of substance use among first respondersHow to start a conversation with a peer without making it worseWhen peer support is enough, and when it’s time to referWhat to do if you’re the one struggling You don’t have to be a counselor to help. You just need to care and know how to step in wisely. Share This Episode: https://www.survivingyourshift.com/55 First Responder Treatment Facilities: Unified Wellness Center: https://unifiedwellnesscenter.com Throttle and Thrive: https://throttleandthrive.com First Responder Wellness: https://frhealth.com Chateau Health & Wellness: https://www.chateaurecovery.com After Action: https://afteraction.care IAFF Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Treatment and Recovery: https://www.iaffrecoverycenter.com Connect with Bart LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bartleger Facebook Page: facebook.com/survivingyourshift Website: www.survivingyourshift.com Want to find out how I can help you build a peer support program in your organization or provide training? Schedule a no-obligation call or Zoom meeting with me here.