Seeking Help for Addiction: When and Where

Addiction carries a social stigma, and often, people do not seek treatment until it is too late. This article will teach us the best time to seek help and where to get it.

Photo byPriscilla Du PreezonUnsplash

Disclaimer: This is an opinion piece for information purposes only. Contact a licensed mental health professional for evaluation and treatment if you struggle with mental health issues.

Addiction is a common and treatable illness. Experts assess that early treatment, like many treatable diseases, can decrease body damage or health complications.

Moreover, addiction negatively affects not only individual suffering but the family, community, and society. And the treatment for addiction costs a lot of money, expertise, and unfortunately, sometimes, life.

What are the most common addiction?

Substance addiction

• Alcohol,
• Hard and prescription drugs,
• Tobacco/nicotine.

Behavioral addiction

• Gambling,
• Work,
• Exercise,
• Food,
• Internet,
• Video games,
• Sex/Pornography,
• Shopping.

When is the right time to seek help?

Now.

Many people who struggle with addiction know when they need help but fail to seek assistance. Why? Addiction is a mental health issue, so societal stigma often prevents many people from seeking help.

It is normal for some people to engage in the above activities with or without a severe problem. However, if any of the above activities affect any part of your life, it is time to seek help. For example, seek help now if drinking alcohol affects your relationships, career, and finances or if you get into legal trouble.

Where can you get help?

First, tell someone you trust if this person is ready to support, encourage, and inspire you during and after treatment.

Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org or

• Call: 1-800-662-4357
• TTY: 1-800-487-4889at
• Text your ZIP code to: 435748
• Visit SAMHSA's National Helpline

Remember, addiction is a mental health issue, and some health insurance may not cover your treatment for outpatient and inpatient facilities. You may need to pay for a long-term treatment, saving you more money than buying drugs or gambling.

Your life matters. Seek help now

Feel free to share this story with anyone you suspect struggles with addiction.

Happy Sunday.

References

https://drugabusestatistics.org/