How to Ask for Help if You’re Struggling with Addiction
Addiction Treatment
Breaking the habit of addiction is the one constant that separates recovery from a fatal overdose. But how do you ask for help? How do you admit that you have a substance abuse problem that you haven’t yet decided you even want to give up?
Joanie’s drug and alcohol problem had spiraled out of control. It started with having drinks at a friend’s house. Later using heroin at a party was added to the mix. Before long the subtle transition from recreational use segued into a habit that was now chronic. Although she recognized the problem, she was afraid to ask for help. But, asking for help is the bravest step Joannie can take towards recovery.
Asking for help interrupts the subtle transition that occurs from first use to abuse with any addictive substance. It is a major component in getting treatment for those who will suffer and ultimately die without it. According to researchers at the University of Pittsburgh, the death rate for people in addiction has grown exponentially and relatively smoothly. They attribute this to the consistent formulation and introduction of new habit-forming drugs. They also suggest that the rising death rate is a composite of multiple distinctive sub-epidemics of different drugs.
Six Ways to Ask for Help
If you are struggling with a drinking problem, opioid abuse or poly-drug use; asking for help can change the trajectory of your life. The important thing to remember is that there is no right or wrong way to ask for help. The following suggestions may help you to formulate what works best for your situation.
- Explore your options through online resources. From chat rooms to support groups, there is valuable information that can help you to be proactive about your recovery journey. Taking this step can provide you with the information you need relevant to your particular substance of abuse and the treatment necessary for recovery. It can also help to alleviate some of the fears associated with asking for help. Online resources can provide valuable information about your particular substance of abuse, what to expect with continued use, how it may already be affecting you and what your options are for recovery.
- Write a letter or email. Taking the time to compose a letter or email usually help to clarify the problem when it is seen on paper. Writing allows the time and freedom to carefully consider and formulate your feelings in a manner that is comfortable for you. It also gives your loved time to assimilate the information and to respond at a time and manner that is less off-putting to the person in addiction. Once you have sent off the letter, this fear induced step towards getting help is out of your hands.
- Talk to someone you know you can trust. Whether it is a friend or family member, choose someone with whom you have successfully confided in the past and you are comfortable with their approach to problems. Talking face-to-face with someone who knows you well and loves you will help to relieve the burden of dealing with substance abuse or addiction alone. This individual can also provide the support you need in taking the next step towards achieving sustainable sobriety.
- Call a helpline. Speaking to a helpline representative is a non-threatening way of asking for help. You will be speaking to an individual whose primary focus is to direct you to the help you need to get on the road to recovery.
- Speak to your Doctor. Addiction is a chronic recurring medical condition that does not go away by temporarily halting the abuse. Your doctor should be able to advise you of the severity of the problem and suggest treatment options or recommend an addiction specialist.
- Find a relevant support group. Connecting with others that are dealing with the same issues is a great way to ask for help. Support groups can also provide a wealth of information regarding treatment programs, lifestyle changes as well as encouragement in achieving and maintaining your sobriety.
Drug Treatment Center West Palm Beach
Ebb Tide Treatment Centers
At Ebb Tide Treatment Centers we believe alcoholics and addicts can and do recover. Recovering from active addiction (Substance Abuse Disorder) does not have to be a long, painful process. With the help of Ebb Tide’s caring and experienced staff, you and your loved ones will learn, and take proven steps necessary to achieve success by maintaining lasting sobriety. The goal of Ebb Tide Treatment Centers is to restore lives and families. With our help, you can regain control of your life from addiction and start living happily again. Your new life is just a phone call away. Call us today at 561-508-8330 or visit our website.
Ebb Tide Treatment Center
400 Executive Center Dr. Suite 209
West Palm Beach, FL 33410
561-508-8330
Sources:
- http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/teaching-packets/understanding-drug-abuse-addiction/section-iii/7-medical-detoxification
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S037687160400211X
Sources:
- https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article218746495.html