5 Steps to Finding Help for Addiction Essay

5 Steps to Finding Help for Addiction
Many people find it daunting to admit they have a problem with drug and/ or alcohol. However this is the first step towards getting help. In most cases, if someone wants to quit drugs or alcohol they cannot do it on their own.
Here are 5 steps you can take towards finding help.
1. Recognize the Signs of addiction
Ask yourself the following questions if you aren't sure whether you're addicted or not
Do I crave for alcohol or any drug or do you feel you can't control your cravings?
Do I use a prescription drugs without prescription from a medical practitioner, or take more than prescribed, or use it for totally a different reason than the prescribed one?
Do I continue using drugs or alcohol despite the fact the drugs have caused?
Has my relationship with friends and family been hurt as a result of using drugs or alcohol?
Have I tried to stop or cut drugs or alcohol use but I couldn't?
If your answer to any of these questions is yes, then it's time to seek help.
2. Decide I Want to Quit
Committing yourself to quit is key before any addiction treatment is commenced. It includes understanding you're always in control of your own behavior. This does not mean you will never make mistakes on this journey towards recovery. However it's of paramount importance to admit a problem exists and pledge to fight back your addiction.
3. Seek Help
There is change in your brain that is caused by constant use of drugs and alcohol. The changes make it difficult for one to quit on their own, even if they really want to. The first steps are always talking to your doctor and enquire if he or she is able to refer you for treatment program. Meeting with an addiction specialist is the other option.
4. Have Support System
Conquering addiction takes hard work. There is need to surround yourself with relevant support as possible. Throughout your recovery ask your closest friends and family to be your support system by standing with you.
A lot of benefits can also be achieved through joining groups of like-minded people. Identify the group that suits your specific need. Your treatment program will always require you to join a group of this kind.
5. Never Give Up
Quitting drugs or alcohol is not an easy task. Nevertheless with the help and support of your doctor, support group, friends, and family you can succeed, even if you have relapse, never give up. A relapse does not mean the treatment has totally failed. It just means more help, time, and maybe changing your treatment program is needed.
Conclusion
The change in the brain structure, its function, and the memory that develop from addition is long-lasting, and sometimes permanent. Rekindling addictive behaviors can happen. Addiction is also considered as a chronic illness and that's why recovery from addiction is lifelong process.