Alcohol use is common among Americans, and many Americans engage in prescription drug misuse or illicit drug use. These substances can create chemical dependency, leading to addiction.
If you use drugs or alcohol, how do you know when it is time to seek professional help?
If you or a loved one is showing signs of a substance use disorder (SUD), such as an inability to control intake or prolonged withdrawal symptoms, consider seeking treatment.
Common Signs Of Addiction
Drug and alcohol addiction affect people’s physical and mental health and everyday behavior, and may develop in a short time.
How long it takes for an SUD to develop depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of substance being used. However, common signs can indicate that a person needs help.
Behavioral Signs Of Addiction
Someone engaged in drug abuse may act erratically due to withdrawal symptoms, a preoccupation with drugs, or other factors.
Examples of behavioral indicators of drug addiction include:
- changes in social circles
- neglect of responsibilities
- secretive behavior
- poor hygiene
- difficulties at school or work
Mental Health Effects Of SUDs
Opioids, alcohol, stimulants, and other drugs of abuse affect brain activity, leading to mental health effects when addiction develops.
Mental health effects of addiction include:
- sudden mood swings
- increased irritability
- decreased motivation
- anxiety
- depression
- paranoia
- confusion
- memory problems
- poor concentration
- hallucinations
- mental cravings
Physical Signs Of Substance Abuse
Aside from mental and behavioral effects, a person’s physical health may deteriorate from short-term or long-term substance abuse.
Physical signs and effects of substance abuse include:
- bloodshot eyes
- weight loss or weight gain
- frequent nosebleeds
- tremors or shaking
- physical cravings
- slurred speech
- impaired coordination
Determining The Right Time For Treatment
Determining the right time for addiction treatment involves a combination of factors, such as how severe the drug addiction is, the type of substance being used, and other personal factors.
Conducting A Personal Assessment
Consider the impact of substance use on your daily life, relationships with family members and other loved ones, and overall well-being. Assess your readiness for change.
If substance use is interfering with your responsibilities and quality of life, it’s likely time to seek professional help to prevent the condition from worsening.
Obtaining A Professional Assessment
Once you’re ready to begin the recovery process, there are resources available to help you get on the path to recovery.
Many addiction treatment centers provide free assessments in order to determine the level of care needed and other appropriate treatment options.
You can also speak with your primary healthcare provider for referrals.
Addiction Treatment Options
Drug rehabilitation centers can offer personalized treatment plans to help you or your loved one overcome drug or alcohol abuse.
Drug rehab programs include:
- residential programs
- inpatient treatment
- detox centers
- outpatient programs, such as intensive outpatient (IOP) and partial hospitalization (PHP)
- medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- aftercare options, such as sober living or transitional housing
Some treatment centers offer all levels of care for a comprehensive approach to addiction recovery.
Treatment options offered in drug rehab facilities include:
- individual therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- group counseling
- family education
- relapse prevention
- medication management
- art therapy
- yoga classes
- nutrition counseling
- mindfulness training
- vocational support
- trauma therapy
- support group meetings, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
- dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring disorders
Making The Decision And Taking Action
To initiate the search for an addiction treatment provider, start by researching online directories, helplines, or recommendations from medical professionals.
Consider factors like location, treatment approaches, and services offered. Assess accreditations and reviews.
Reach out to potential providers to discuss your needs and ask questions. Most addiction treatment centers are happy to help you find a program that aligns with your recovery goals.
Find Drug And Alcohol Treatment Today
Learn more about addiction recovery tools for yourself or a loved one by visiting AddictionResource.net today.
Addiction Resource aims to provide only the most current, accurate information in regards to addiction and addiction treatment, which means we only reference the most credible sources available.
These include peer-reviewed journals, government entities and academic institutions, and leaders in addiction healthcare and advocacy. Learn more about how we safeguard our content by viewing our editorial policy.
- National Library of Medicine – Chapter 5: Specialized Substance Abuse Treatment Programs
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK64815/ - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Substance Use Disorder Treatment Providers & CCBHCs
https://www.samhsa.gov/certified-community-behavioral-health-clinics/section-223/care-coordination/substance-use-disorder-treatment-providers
