Ask Maxy

Dear Maxy ,

I notice the other day that one of the secretaries at my company was taking toliet paper out of the bathroom and stuffing it in her bag . I found that a little odd. So I started watching her , and I am concerned , because it looks like she may be in a bit of trouble . She looks less and less together in her physical appearance . I'm wondering if she is homeless or if something else if happening to her .

Compassionate Co-Worker

Dear Compassionate Co-Worker ,

Invite this woman to tea one afternoon , In a private setting away from co-workers , ask if she is OK. Tell her you have notice something's different . Acknowledge that you saw her taking toliet paper . Nudge her a little to talk about what's happening . Ask her if she needs help . She may not answer , but at least she will know someone cares about her and that she should be mindful of taking company property .

Maxy

Dear Maxy ,

My best friend had a terrible night . She called to tell me that she got crazy drunk while ahe was at a party . She called a friend to take her home , and her friend later filled her in with all the details . When she told me about it , she was telling her friend's story ; she had blacked out and didn't remember anything . This isn't the first time my girl has gotten trashed and not remember the night before when she woke up in the morning . I love her so much and want her to be healthy . What can I do to help her ? I know she trusts me . That's why she called to tell me to tell me what happened to her . But how can I really be there for her .

Best Friend

Dear Best Friend,

The best-friend role is extremely important , and it includes sometimes having to stand up and say tough things . Right now , your role is account to your friend what her behavior has been like in the recent past ... not in a way that suggests you're keeping score , but as a reflection of her life . Suggest that she go to Alcoholics Annoymous to get free support . Do the the research and find a meeting near her workplace or home .( alcoholics annoymous.com) Get her to a meeting .

Maxy