People begin drinking and using drugs for a variety of reasons, whether it is out of curiosity, peer pressure or to relieve stress and anxiety. These effects may seem positive at first, which makes it more challenging to recognize when substance use crosses the line from casual to problematic.

Understanding Addiction as a Chronic Disease

The progression of addiction as an illness means that, at some point, you will lose control of the ability to moderate your use, and lose sight of when your destructive behavior has begun disrupting your life. Seeking help can save your life and prevent severe ramifications like legal and financial problems or damaged relationships.

Though there is a persistent belief that people who fall prey to addiction do so because they lack willpower or moral fiber, this stigma is outdated. Because prolonged drug and alcohol use changes the brain, people who have a substance misuse disorder can’t walk away on their own, no matter how motivated they are to quit. Powerful cravings and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms keep users coming back, despite the adverse consequences.

How to Tell If You Should Seek Help

Usually, there is not one defining, “rock-bottom” moment that will cause someone to admit they have a problem with substance abuse. Even if you seem to have your life together in public, you can still be falling apart in private.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself if you are wondering whether you should consider seeking treatment at an addiction rehab facility.

• When you run out of drugs or alcohol, do you find yourself thinking obsessively about how to get more?
• Have you ever experienced consequences such as bankruptcy, arrest or the loss of a job because of your substance misuse?
• Do you spend an excessive amount of time trying to obtain drugs?
• Have you ever committed to quitting, only to realize you can’t?
• Have drugs and alcohol become a priority in your life, taking the place of your relationships or career?
• Do you often try to justify your “need” for drugs or alcohol to those around you?
• Do you find yourself lying about the extent of your substance misuse?
• Have you ever stolen drugs or the money to pay for them?
• Have the people closest to you ever expressed worries about your behavior?

If you answered “yes” to most or all these questions, it’s likely your substance use is adversely affecting your life or the lives of others around you, and you could benefit from seeking immediate treatment.

A Life of Freedom Can Be Yours

Admitting you have an addiction problem is the beginning of your healing process. If you are ready to accept help and make significant changes in your behavior, you can learn skills to help you manage your illness and go on to reclaim your life. At a qualified treatment facility like Canyon Crossing, our state-licensed clinicians provide individualized treatment plans that address the unique needs of women in addiction recovery. To learn more about the unique features and amenities of our Arizona women’s rehab center, reach out today.