There comes a time in many people’s lives when they recognize that they need help. It’s hard to admit that you have a problem, and even harder to admit that it’s a problem that you can’t solve by yourself.
Even if you know that you abuse a substance and that it’s causing you harm, how do you know if it’s time to seek professional addiction help? When is your problem so advanced that it’s no longer possible to just “quit cold turkey” by yourself?
If you’re on the fence, you’re still taking an important first step toward recovery. We’re here to help you make this important decision. Keep reading to learn a few top signs that it’s time to go to rehab for your severe addiction.
Your Relationships Are Strained
How are your relationships with your friends and family members? Are you still in a close-knit community, or have you discovered that people are distancing themselves from you (or vice versa)?
It’s common for people who are experiencing addiction problems to also suffer problems within their social lives. They may find that the only friends that they continue to spend time with are the friends who enable their addictions.
People who manage addictions tend to also struggle with their moods and experience behavioral changes. You might not notice what you’re doing, but it’s possible that you’ve been pushing people away with your own behavior.
It’s likely that your close friends and family members want to see you get better. Reach out to them when you’re ready to start your recovery journey and you may be able to mend your relationships.
Addiction Is Impacting Your Physical Health
Addiction is a mental health problem, but it also leaks into physical health. If you’ve discovered that prolonged drug or alcohol use has caused serious problems for your physical health, and you’re still using, it’s time to seek a professional inpatient center.
Drug and alcohol abuse can lead to physical injuries or STDs from risk-taking behavior, extreme weight loss or gain, and even serious illnesses like cancer.
It’s crucial to seek out professional help when your addiction is causing physical health problems so you can ween yourself off of the substance without causing yourself more harm.
You’re Ignoring Serious Responsibilities
Have you been ignoring any responsibilities lately?
Most people are able to maintain their jobs or academic schedules most of the time as long as their mental health is good. While it’s normal to struggle with responsibilities and have “off days,” if you’ve realized that your work or academic performance is declining as a result of your addiction, it’s time to seek out rehab.
Many people who experience addictions choose to forgo work or school in favor of using their substance of choice. They may also show up to work or school while under the influence or neglect to do work at home.
Responsibilities aren’t all professional. What about your household responsibilities?
Are you keeping your home clean? Are you taking good enough care of your pets or children? Have you been attending the events that you’ve agreed to attend (like sports games, conferences, or performances)?
If you’ve been shirking responsibilities, it might be time to seek help.
You’re Lying About Your Substance Use
Have you been hiding your substance use from friends and family members? Are you lying about where you are and what you’re doing? This is a sign that you need to seek treatment for your addiction.
While it’s normal to hide some facets of your life from the people around you. That said, feeling shame while hiding your substance use isn’t normal. If you’re worried about what people will think about your substance abuse, it’s a sign that you already know that you need help (even if you haven’t yet come to terms with it).
You No Longer Engage in Hobbies
Do you still do the things that you used to enjoy before you started using drugs or alcohol? Whether it’s sports, games, art, or anything else that used to take up your free time, where have those things gone?
Many people stop finding time for their hobbies when they get too deep into their substance abuse problems. They no longer get the dopamine boost from their hobbies.
If you’re not sure whether or not this applies to you, try doing a few things that you used to enjoy. If you quickly abandon them for your substance of choice, you know it’s time to stop.
You Know You Can’t Stop
That’s the problem, though, isn’t it? You know it’s time to stop, but it’s easier said than done.
When you’re on a night out, are you able to stop drinking or using drugs when the party is over? Most people are able to have a drink or two and then return home. Someone with an addiction, however, is unable to do so.
When you set limitations for yourself, are you able to stick to them? Can people rely on you as a designated driver? If “only one drink” never means one drink, it’s time to seek professional help.
Do You Need Addiction Help?
Deciding to seek out addiction help is a huge step forward. It’s scary and it puts you in a vulnerable position, but it will be the best thing that you do for yourself this year.
If these signs seem too close to home, it might be time to visit a rehab center and start taking your life back.
Are you ready for your recovery journey? Our compassionate team at The Ohana wants to help you. Contact us to get started today.
