Many people struggle with addiction. What happens after they admit to themselves that they have a problem? After admitting that there is a problem with their use of drugs or alcohol, the next step is asking for help from others.
Those that struggle with addiction can be wary of asking for help. Asking for help means that they must admit to something they would probably prefer not to mention. Asking for help can be so difficult that sometimes it seems easier to just continue living in a downward spiral rather than reach out. It doesn’t have to be that way. The earlier they seek help and treatment, the better chance they will have at returning to a healthy and sober lifestyle.
These are a few ways someone can ask for help.
Reach Out To Someone You Trust
A therapist is a great person to talk to about your struggles with addiction. If you can’t afford a therapist or don’t have health insurance, talk to a friend or loved one. Even if the ones you trust haven’t gone through addiction, they can provide a sympathetic ear and even give you advice on how to conquer your illness. It feels good to know that someone is on your side is there to help you through your issues.
Look For Someone Who’s Had A Similar Experience
Do you have a friend, family member, or coworker who’s recovering from substance abuse? Talking with them can give you some perspective on how to begin your journey to sobriety. They might also be able to provide you with resources, such as counselors, treatment centers, and crisis hotlines, that helped them when they decided to get clean.
Write A Letter Or Email
If you’re not quite ready to talk about how you’re feeling, writing your thoughts on paper can be therapeutic and help you sort out what’s going on in your head. It can allow you to organize whatever you’re thinking and fully process your thoughts. This way, when you are ready to ask for help with addiction, you’ll know exactly what to say and how to say it. After you send your letter or email, there’s no going back, so you’ll be forced to confront reality.
Reach Out To A Medical Professional
Doctors are ready and able to help you with any medical concerns you have, especially when it comes to addiction. Once you meet with your doctor, he or she will ask you a series of questions to determine the severity of your disease. They’ll lay out the next steps for you (most likely directing you toward a treatment center) so that you can get healthy and sober.
Search For Online Resources
From Facebook groups to chat rooms and AA meetings, there are plenty of online addiction resources for you to peruse. It might be easier for you to look online for these resources until you’re ready to speak to someone in person. On a website, you can chat online with a representative who can lead you on the right path. Looking through online resources can at least give you some information on what you’re going through and provide you with some help with addiction.