It is a common misconception that people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol have little to no desire to put a stop to their addiction. In fact, it is usually the exact opposite. No one wants to be chained to a disease as overpowering as addiction, even if it may appear that way to onlookers. Those who are addicted to mind-altering substances tend to experience a constant internal battle where they deeply desire to have a life free from addictive substances but have significant difficulty taking action to stop their abuse. This is all part of the disease aspect of addiction, as drugs and alcohol change the way the brain functions. However, those who want to get sober can do so even if they are having this battle within themselves. One of the most important things to be aware of is how to ask for addiction help.
Recognizing the Signs of Addiction in Yourself
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease of the brain that is characterized by repetitive substance abuse that leads to tolerance and dependence. Continued abuse of drugs and alcohol leads to changes in the brain that make stopping use extremely difficult, if not impossible. In many cases, it is not always the easiest thing for us to purposefully pinpoint the aspects about ourselves that are not favorable. This is part of human nature. However, when something as serious as addiction is occurring, it is imperative that you know if your behaviors are indicative of this disease or something else. Some of the things that you can ask yourself to help determine if you are addicted to drugs or alcohol can include the following:
- Am I able to stop using drugs or alcohol independently?
- Do I feel like I need to use drugs or alcohol in order to function?
- Do I start developing withdrawal symptoms when I am unable to use?
- Am I needing to consume larger amounts of drugs or alcohol in order to feel high?
- Am I experiencing negative consequences as a result of my drug or alcohol use but continuing to use anyway?
If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, it is possible that you are addicted to drugs or alcohol. These are some of the key markers of this disease, therefore if you are experiencing them, it is a good time to start thinking about how to ask for addiction help. The first step in this process is vital and includes admitting that you have a problem. It is completely understandable if you feel guilt, shame, or embarrassment as you start to acknowledge this. However, there is nothing to be ashamed about when it comes to this disease. If you have gotten to a point where you are ready to ask for help, be proud of yourself, as many people do not ever get there.
How to Ask for Addiction Help
Asking for help sounds much simpler than it actually is, especially when it comes to addiction. Many times, individuals have spent a great deal of time and energy focusing on hiding or minimizing the severity of their addiction, so the thought of asking for help can seem completely foreign. But, if you are ready to get the help you need, asking for it is absolutely essential.
You may be wondering how to ask for addiction help. Consider the following ideas.
Talk to Your Doctor
Part of the hesitation to get help often comes from fear of what loved ones might think if you ask for it. Talking with someone who is not a relative but who can still provide help, such as a doctor, can feel less intimidating. Ask your doctor what recommendations they have for treatment options and if they have any referrals to other providers who can offer more assistance.
Reach Out to Someone Who Can Relate
Talk to someone who you know can relate to your situation. This may be a friend, family member, or someone you have met along the way when you have tried to get sober before. Gathering information based on their experience can help you get moving on acquiring treatment for yourself.
Take Initiative
There are no rules that say you can’t call up a treatment center yourself. If you are ready to make this change, do not hesitate. Do not spend time trying to figure out how to ask for addiction help in the perfect way. Simply make the call. Speak with members of the treatment program’s staff and see what options they have for you.
Write It Out
When something as serious as addiction is occurring, it can be helpful to write everything out. If you want to get help, consider writing a letter to a trusted loved one who you know will support you at this time. Writing a note can also be helpful because you may not be in a place where you are comfortable talking about many of the things that led to your addiction becoming unmanageable.
Addiction Treatment in Knoxville, TN
If you are ready to get help for your addiction, do not waste one more minute thinking about how to ask for addiction help. Contact us at Tennessee Valley Recovery right now to speak with one of our team members. We can help you determine which type of treatment is best for you, how to obtain it, and when.
Call us right now to get started on a happier, healthier, and brighter tomorrow.