If you think you have a problem with drugs, then you probably do. No one knows you better than yourself, and if you suspect your drug use is out of control then deep down you may know you have a problem but might have difficulty actually admitting it. Denial is a big part of addiction and until this is overcome giving up is nigh on impossible.
If you’re still not sure, then read on and outside the following questions truthfully. There is no point in lying to yourself, it’s likely you are only lining yourself up for more problems in the future.
- Have you ever borrowed or even stolen money to buy drugs?
- Do you get angry or into a panic if you can get hold of any drugs?
- Have you hidden your consumption of drugs from others, or lied about it?
- Do you find it difficult to moderate your drug use?
- Have you neglected responsibilities to spend time acquiring drugs?
- Do you stay in more often, hiding away from friends and family?
- Have you missed social occasions due to your drug use?
- Has using drugs made you take time off work?
- Have you become powerless over your need to take drugs?
- Are drugs affecting other areas of your life?
If you can answer yes to any of these questions, then it could be time to look at your drug use and ways of cutting down or stopping. Many people who suffer from addiction problems find the only way to beat this progressive disease is total abstinence. Addiction is a real disease, and the sad news is that it can’t actually be cured. The good news though is that drug addiction can be treated. By managing the symptoms of this debilitating condition, someone who has previously suffered from an addiction can go on to live a clean and sober healthy life.
Giving up drugs is best done under the supervision of a qualified suitable health professional. Some drugs, such as heroin can have severe withdrawal symptoms and there can be complications. In some cases a sudden withdrawal from certain drugs can even be fatal without the right medical help. The body may struggle to function without drugs after an extended period of use, and medical assistance may be required to detoxify safely.
There are different types of help available for someone who is trying to give up drugs. From self help groups and fellowships such as 12 step programs to stricter regimes such as residential rehab, once someone is ready to accept that they have a problem and ask for help – there is plenty out there.
Rehab isn’t just available for the rich and famous – it’s something you often hear about in the press but seems out of reach of the ordinary person. This misconception is due to the perceived high cost of residential rehab facilities – but many insurers include treatments for addictions in their policies. Recovery should be available for everyone – and it is. If you or someone you know has a problem with drugs then it’s best to seek help straight away. The sooner an addiction is treated, by rehab or other means, then it is more likely that a successful outcome and a clean and healthy addiction free lifestyle will be the result.
