How to Ask for Help With Addiction

What Is Considered Addiction?

Addiction is a chronic medical disease that is uncurable but treatable. Addiction involves complex interactions between genetics, brain circuits, the surrounding environment, and life experiences. Those with addictions use substances compulsively and often continue regardless of adverse outcomes.

Like all chronic conditions, addiction has high relapse rates. Prevention services and treatment approaches for substance use disorder are equally successful as those directed at other chronic conditions.

National Institute on Drug Abuse defines substance use disorder as a chronic brain disorder that involves functional brain changes that often persist long after substance use is discontinued.

Substance use disorder is diagnosed according to the criteria set out in DSM-5-TR (the latest revised edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders published by American Psychiatric Association.

The eleven symptoms can be grouped as follows:

Impaired Control

• Using more of the substance than intended or for a longer period than planned.
• Trying and failing to moderate or discontinue use of the substance.
• Spending lots of time obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of the substance.

Pharmacological criteria

• Developing tolerance so that the effects of the substance are diminished and more is required to achieve the same effects.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms in the absence of the substance.

Cravings

• Experiencing intense cravings for the substance.

Risky use

• Using the substance in dangerous situations like driving.
• Ongoing substance use despite this causing or inflaming physical or mental health problems.

Social impairment

• Giving up important activities because of substance use.
• Failing to meet personal and professional commitments due to substance abuse.
• Continuing to use addictive substances even though it is causing problems in your relationships.

Substance use disorder is diagnosed according to the number of criteria that present as mild (2 to 3), moderate (4 to 5), or severe (6).

What Will Happen When You Get Help?

Now you know how to ask for help with alcoholism or drug addiction, here’s what to expect when an addict needs help:

• Assessment and evaluation: The first step in the treatment process is usually an assessment and evaluation. A treatment team will evaluate your physical and mental health, substance use history, and other factors that may impact your recovery.
• Treatment plan: Based on the assessment, a healthcare professional will work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals.
• Detoxification: Those dependent on drugs or alcohol will benefit from a supervised medical detox. Clinical detox minimizes the likelihood of complications or relapse derailing your early recovery. While detox addresses the issue of physical drug or alcohol dependence, you will require ongoing treatment to deal with the psychological component of substance use disorder.
• Inpatient, outpatient, or virtual addiction treatment: ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) categorizes addiction treatment by five levels of care from early intervention and outpatient services through to intensive outpatient treatment and inpatient treatment, also known as residential rehab. Increasingly, drug and alcohol rehabs also offer remote rehab programs that provide access to online therapy and counseling sessions.
• Support groups: Joining a support group like AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) or NA (Narcotics Anonymous), may provide you with valuable additional support and guidance throughout your recovery journey.
• Aftercare: As you progress through treatment, a healthcare professional will work with you to develop an aftercare plan to help you maintain your sobriety and prevent relapse. This may involve stepping down to a less intense form of treatment before transitioning back into daily living.

Getting help for drug addiction or alcoholism can be a life-changing experience, and can lead to improved physical and mental health, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment. The journey requires commitment, hard work, and ongoing support, though. With the right treatment and ongoing assistance, it is perfectly possible to overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. We can help you every step of the journey at Gratitude Lodge in Southern California.

Who To Talk to About Getting Help For Addiction

Getting help for addiction can be a difficult and often overwhelming process, but it’s the precursor to recovery. If you are considering talking to your family, friends, or professionals about your addiction, here’s what you need to know:

Family

Talking to your family members about your addiction can be tough, but your loved ones can provide emotional support and encouragement, as well as help you identify appropriate treatment options.

When talking to your family, be honest and open about your struggles, and remember to express your willingness to change and to emphasize your commitment to recovery.

Remember: it may take time for your family to fully understand and support your decision to get help, but with patience and persistence, you can work together towards a healthier future. As you start making positive behavioral changes and unchaining yourself from addiction, your family relationships should start improving.

Friends

Your friends can also be a valuable source of support during your recovery journey. They can offer encouragement, help you find resources, and provide a safe and non-judgmental space to talk about your struggles.

That said, not all friends will be supportive, and some might even enable your addiction. Surround yourself with friends who are committed to your recovery and who will support your decision to seek help to maximize your chances of recovery without relapse. 

Professionals

Healthcare professionals like doctors, addiction counselors, and therapists are trained to help those struggling with addictions. Medical professionals can assess your situation and recommend appropriate treatment options. These may include counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and psychotherapy delivered in an inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation center.

Professionals can also provide support and guidance throughout your recovery journey, helping you develop coping strategies and build a robust sober support network. When talking to a professional, be honest about your substance use history and any other factors that may impact your recovery.