If you’ve ever been in a situation where a friend or loved one has had too much to drink, you know how delicate it can be to handle. You want to be kind, supportive, and safe, but also firm enough to keep them from making risky decisions. This article is designed to help you communicate with warmth, empathy, and clear intention—without sounding harsh or judgmental.
Below are 30 practical ways to encourage a drunk person to go to sleep, each presented in a gentle, conversational style. These are not about controlling someone—they’re about caring for them and keeping them safe.
1. “Let’s get you to bed so you can rest.”
Best use: When they’re tired and cooperative.
Not use: If they feel attacked or controlled.
Other ways to say: “You’ve had enough for tonight. Let’s rest.”
Example: “Hey, you’ve had a long night. Let’s get you to bed so you can sleep it off.”
2. “I’m going to stay with you until you’re okay.”
Best use: When they feel alone or anxious.
Not use: If they don’t want company.
Other ways to say: “I’m here. You’re not alone.”
Example: “I’ll stay right here with you. You don’t have to handle this by yourself.”
3. “You deserve rest. Let’s make you comfortable.”
Best use: When they need reassurance.
Not use: If they feel criticized.
Other ways to say: “Let’s get you cozy and calm.”
Example: “You’ve been out all night—let’s get you comfortable and let your body rest.”
4. “Your body needs sleep right now.”
Best use: When they’re ignoring their health.
Not use: If they think you’re lecturing.
Other ways to say: “Your body is asking for rest.”
Example: “Your body needs recovery time. Sleep will help.”
5. “Let’s turn off the lights and relax.”
Best use: When environment matters.
Not use: If they want to stay active.
Other ways to say: “Time to calm things down.”
Example: “Let’s dim the lights. Your head will feel better in a quiet room.”
6. “I’m going to help you lie down.”
Best use: When they need physical assistance.
Not use: If they resist too much.
Other ways to say: “Let’s get you settled.”
Example: “Come on, I’ll help you lie down so you can rest.”
7. “You’re safe here. Let’s sleep.”
Best use: When they feel insecure.
Not use: If they’re aggressive.
Other ways to say: “You’re okay. Let’s rest.”
Example: “You’re safe with me. Let’s sleep and talk tomorrow.”
8. “I’ll get you water and a blanket.”
Best use: When they need comfort and hydration.
Not use: If they’re already resistant.
Other ways to say: “Let’s make you comfortable.”
Example: “Here’s some water and a blanket. You’ll feel better after resting.”
9. “You can talk tomorrow. Right now, rest.”
Best use: When they want to argue or confess.
Not use: If they need emotional support immediately.
Other ways to say: “We can talk later.”
Example: “We can sort everything out tomorrow. For now, sleep.”
10. “You’re not in trouble. I just want you safe.”
Best use: When they feel defensive.
Not use: If they think you’re judging.
Other ways to say: “I’m not mad. I care.”
Example: “I’m not upset. I just want you safe. Let’s sleep.”
11. “Let’s take it slow. One step at a time.”
Best use: When they are overwhelmed.
Not use: If they’re stubborn.
Other ways to say: “We’ll go at your pace.”
Example: “We’ll go slow. First, lie down. Then rest.”
12. “You’ll feel so much better after sleep.”
Best use: When they doubt sleep helps.
Not use: If they want to stay awake.
Other ways to say: “Sleep will help your body reset.”
Example: “Trust me, you’ll feel better after a nap.”
13. “I’m not letting you drive. Sleep is safer.”
Best use: When they try to drive.
Not use: If they feel controlled.
Other ways to say: “You can’t drive tonight.”
Example: “No driving tonight. Let’s sleep and go in the morning.”
14. “Let’s call a friend or family member.”
Best use: When they’re unsafe or alone.
Not use: If they feel embarrassed.
Other ways to say: “Let’s get support.”
Example: “Want me to call someone so you feel safer?”
15. “I’ll stay up until you fall asleep.”
Best use: When they feel anxious.
Not use: If you’re exhausted.
Other ways to say: “I won’t leave you alone.”
Example: “I’ll stay with you until you drift off.”
16. “Let’s turn off the music and quiet down.”
Best use: When noise keeps them awake.
Not use: If they want to party.
Other ways to say: “Time for quiet.”
Example: “Let’s turn the music down. Your head will thank you.”
17. “Here’s a pillow. Let’s lie down.”
Best use: When they need comfort.
Not use: If they are too restless.
Other ways to say: “Let’s get you cozy.”
Example: “Grab this pillow. Lie down for a bit.”
18. “You don’t have to be ‘fine’ tonight. Just rest.”
Best use: When they’re pretending.
Not use: If they’re in danger.
Other ways to say: “It’s okay to slow down.”
Example: “You don’t have to act strong. Just rest.”
19. “Let’s keep you hydrated before bed.”
Best use: When they’re dehydrated.
Not use: If they refuse water.
Other ways to say: “Drink some water.”
Example: “Here’s water. It’ll help your body recover while you sleep.”
20. “I’m taking your keys. You can’t go anywhere.”
Best use: When they try to leave.
Not use: If they get violent.
Other ways to say: “You’re not going anywhere tonight.”
Example: “I’m holding your keys for now. Let’s sleep.”
21. “You can sleep on the couch. It’s safe.”
Best use: When bed isn’t available.
Not use: If they’re restless.
Other ways to say: “Let’s find a safe spot.”
Example: “The couch is fine. Let’s rest there.”
22. “You’re doing great. Just rest now.”
Best use: When they feel ashamed.
Not use: If they’re angry.
Other ways to say: “You’re okay. Sleep now.”
Example: “You’re handling this well. Let’s rest.”
23. “I’m going to help you calm down.”
Best use: When they’re anxious.
Not use: If they are aggressive.
Other ways to say: “Let’s slow your breathing.”
Example: “Breathe with me. You’ll feel calmer soon.”
24. “Let’s keep it simple: sleep now, talk later.”
Best use: When conversation escalates.
Not use: If they need to talk.
Other ways to say: “We can discuss later.”
Example: “Let’s save the conversation for tomorrow. Sleep first.”
25. “You’re important to me. I want you safe.”
Best use: When they feel unloved.
Not use: If they’re defensive.
Other ways to say: “I care about you.”
Example: “You matter to me. Please rest and stay safe.”
Conclusion: Keeping Them Safe with Love and Respect
When someone is drunk, the goal isn’t to “win” an argument or force them into obedience—it’s to keep them safe, comfortable, and respected. The best way to convince someone to sleep is with gentle firmness, warmth, and clear boundaries.
If you ever feel like they may be in danger (vomiting, passing out, unconscious, or unable to stay awake), seek medical help immediately. Your care and presence can make a huge difference—and sometimes, so can a simple “Let’s rest now.”
Editor’s Picks
Here are 10 top editor-approved phrases that work best in real situations:
- “You’re safe here. Let’s sleep.”
Simple, calming, and reassuring. - “I’ll stay with you until you fall asleep.”
Shows support and care. - “Your body needs sleep right now.”
Gentle reminder of health. - “Let’s get you comfortable and quiet.”
Practical and soothing. - “You can talk tomorrow. Right now, rest.”
Avoids confrontation. - “No driving tonight. Sleep first.”
Firm, safety-focused. - “I’m not mad. I just want you safe.”
Reduces defensiveness. - “Here’s water and a blanket.”
Caring and practical. - “You deserve rest.”
Affirms their worth. - “You don’t have to be ‘fine’ tonight. Just rest.”
Validates emotions and encourages rest.
