I am concerned about my dear friend, "Laura." She has always been a drinker, but recently her drinking has increased to an alarming level.

When Laura is sober, she is a vivacious, outgoing, fun-loving person. However, when she drinks, she can no longer carry on an intelligent conversation. She behaves outrageously and it is embarrassing to be in public with her. Seeing a drunk, out-of-control woman is, frankly, pathetic. I don't know if she is unable to recognize the stares of disgust or just doesn't care.

Laura has a husband and adult children. It seems wrong to stand by while she slips further away, but I know from experience that she will be angry and defensive if I confront her about her drinking. If a person has a supportive family, shouldn't it be their responsibility to deal with this?

What is the responsibility of friends in a situation such as this? Saying nothing feels wrong, but I know confrontation will end badly. － Her Sober FriendDear Sober:

A friend cares enough to speak up. Don't be angry or accusatory with Laura. Instead, approach her when she is sober, and do so with love and concern. Tell her she is a smart and vivacious friend, but when she drinks, she loses the qualities that make her so wonderful. She may be convinced to seek help.

alarming  (adj.)   惊人的；吓人的vivacious  (adj.)   活泼的；有朝气的intelligent  (adj.)   聪明的；有才智的outrageously  (adv.)   骇人听闻地；无法无天地frankly  (adv.)   老实地；明白地pathetic  (adj.)   可悲的；可怜的defensive  (adj.)   防卫的；守势的to confront  (v.)   面对；面临supportive  (adj.)   支持的；辅助的