How to Stop Drug & Alcohol Abuse

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Drug and alcohol abuse are pervasive problems. Many suffer in silence, with the isolation enabling the addiction to grow worse over time. While recovery can seem impossible, there is hope for healing. The road is long, and there will be many obstacles along the way, but with courage, patience and persistence, it is possible to learn a healthier lifestyle and habits. Admitting you have a problem with drug and alcohol abuse is a sign of tremendous courage and strength, and the beginning of the solution.

Instructions
  • Realize you have a problem with drug or alcohol abuse. This is a tremendous and courageous first step, as awareness is the catalyst for transformation; denial only enables addiction to fester. Getting sober also is an important part of the beginning of recovery. See your primary care doctor to get referred to an addiction medicine specialist if you experience withdrawal symptoms from becoming sober.
  • Seek help. Reach out to trusted family and friends. Receive peer support through 12- step group programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Drug Addicts Anonymous, or speak with a therapist. Research drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs (see below for links to help you get started).
  • Choose a treatment program suited to your needs. Be aware of: program accreditation and licensing, studies measuring program effectiveness and aftercare programs to prevent relapse. Check your insurance for programs that offer sliding- scale or reduced-payment options for financial assistance.
  • Maintain recovery bystaying involved in a support group and starting or maintaining healthy lifestyle practices such as exercising regularly, eating well and sleeping enough.
  • Develop healthy coping skills by learning emotional awareness and stress management through a course or by practicing yoga and meditation. Identify triggers (people, places or things that cause you to abuse drugs or alcohol), and practice how you will successfully handle drugs or alcohol in social settings.
  • Have patience with yourself. Realize that recovery is a long-term process, which can involve relapse. If this occurs, do not beat yourself up. Instead, admit to yourself or someone you trust that you have made a mistake, and then redouble your commitment to healing. Have faith, be determined, and persevere. You will see results.

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