Some people who try drugs are thrill-seekers, some are just curious, some try drugs because their friends use them, or they want to be perceived as ‘cool’. Even more susceptible to abusing drugs – and at-risk of falling into addiction – are people who are suffering emotionally and who use the drug to cope with the day-to-day difficulties of life.
Making the decision to go into treatment is potentially life-changing but finding a programme that suits you is also an important choice. To give yourself the best chance of success you need to choose a treatment programme that suits your circumstances. The best option will probably not be the ‘easiest’ one, as any treatment for addiction is going to be a difficult, challenging experience.
If you feel that you have tried to cope on your own but that your drug or alcohol misuse is not getting any better, or is even getting worse, it is probably time to seek professional help.
Consider the following factors when choosing the right treatment option for you:
When a person relapses it can be a very painful and emotional time for them. They may feel that they have failed not only themselves but also their friends and family, and their peers if they are in treatment. However, many health professionals working in the field of addiction believe that one or two periods of relapse are, in fact, an intrinsic part of the recovery process.
All recovery programmes should inform their clients and their families to prepare for the possibility of lapse and relapse. A good treatment programme will include advice on relapse prevention; triggers and signs to look out for; planning for difficult situations; and advice on how to mitigate a lapse and keep a single episode from becoming a full-blown relapse.
Most of us recognise the destructive long-term effects that drugs can cause, no matter how good the short-lived feeling we experience from taking them. The same applies to alcohol. But it’s also easy to understand why we use and misuse drugs that pose risks to our health and well-being. Drugs can be intensely pleasurable, at first.
Drug misuse, also known as ’substance misuse’, is the repeated and often excessive use of a drug to produce pleasure or escape reality
You may have been taking drugs or drinking alcohol for some time and feel that you have been coping well. Not everyone who uses drugs or alcohol needs help. However, there may come a time when your drinking or drug use has become problematic or out of control and you need to seek professional help