One of the hardest things an addict will have to do in their lifetime is ask for help to break away from their addiction.  It takes work to develop skills to be able to fight cravings and to learn to love yourself.  It is possible that for many years you have lied about your addiction – about what and how much you were using.  After lying to others for so long, you ultimately start lying to yourself, as well, until you’re not sure what is true and valid anymore.  This type of behavior can bring guilt and shame, therefore exacerbating the issue.  Making the decision to ask for help will be one of the best things you can do for yourself.

Many people who suffer from addiction try to convince themselves that they are not an addict.  The addict will quit one drug and pick up another to show themselves that they are able to stop.  Mind altering substances are still being used.  This type of behavior might indicate that a person needs help for their addiction.  For someone who has crossed the threshold into addiction, it is no longer fun.  What was once maybe an enjoyable recreational time has now become true work – work to keep it a secret and work to keep feeding it.  

When you are deep into addiction, things that used to matter don’t anymore.  Loved ones become second best to substances and getting more is the only thing you care about.  At some point in your life, you may have had hobbies you enjoyed, yet those have likely diminished as well.  It’s not that you don’t care about these things anymore; addiction always wins.

Addiction is exhausting.  If using drugs and alcohol is disrupting your daily functioning, then it is time to ask for help.  An addict can have memory loss, which may cause problems at their job or in their personal life.  A person addicted to drugs or alcohol will feel physical symptoms as well.  They may get violently ill when they can’t have their substance of choice and might also have a drastic change is appearance.

One imperative thing to know about asking for help: it is not shameful.  Sometimes people may feel embarrassed to make that leap, however, it shows great courage to make the decision to get clean and sober.  Moreover, people may be proud of you, and you will be proud of you.  For the first time in a long time, you will start to like who you are and gain self-respect.

The Kimberly Center is a place for healing. We welcome you to our treatment programs for substance dependence and abuse where the number one goal is restoring your or your loved one to live a healthier, happier, and more productive life. A life free from substance dependence and destructive behaviors waits. Call us now for information on our programs of treatment and start your journey today: 855-452-3683