Becoming Aware of Alcohol and Substance Abuse
““Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover
the infinite power of our light””
Life is a journey composed of unique experiences that build our character and provide us with opportunities to create our own destiny. In the process, we experience highs and lows. By nature, we accept the highs more than the lows as the highs usually bring feelings of joy and satisfaction. Within our journey we learn to cope with the lows. Some people cope by reaching out to friends/family, journaling, receiving mental health services, meditating, reading self-help books among many other healthy ways of coping. However, not everyone has the ability to open up about past traumas (child abuse, exposure to violence, family history of substance abuse, loss of a loved one and tragic life experiences). In some cases, individuals suppress their feelings and pain, utilize anger for power and control, self-protection, isolate themselves and turn to substances as a way to numb their feelings and memories of trauma/loss. When we are unaware of our responses, we tend to continue unhealthy patterns that can lead to dependency and addiction. So what do we do? How do we become aware of an alcohol/substance abuse addiction and heal? This blog will help you recognize the signs of addiction and how to obtain the help that you need, so you can heal and live your life to your fullest potential. Everything is possible with knowledge, support, action and self-determination.
What is a substance-based addiction?
According to the American Psychological Association a substance-based addiction is defined as “Substance abuse is a pattern of compulsive substance use marked by recurrent significant social, occupational, legal, or interpersonal adverse consequences, such as repeated absences from work or school, arrests, and marital difficulties. Addiction is a state of psychological or physical dependence (or both) on the use of alcohol or other drugs. The term is often used as an equivalent term for substance dependence and sometimes applied to behavioral disorders, such as sexual, internet, and gambling addictions.”
According to the All Points North (APN) “The widespread prevalence of substance use disorders solidifies the need for quality treatment options and resources for people seeking recovery. Alcohol is by far the most commonly abused substance: 10.2% of all Americans struggle with an alcohol use disorder, far more than any other substance. In descending order, marijuana, prescription drugs, opioids, and stimulants are the next most common substance use disorders.”
Statistics:
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse:
6.4% of Californians have alcohol use disorder
3.3% of Californians have substance use disorder involving illicit drugs
0.6% have an addiction to prescription pain medication
10 Signs of Addiction:
According to Recovery Centers for America:
Missing Class/Work due to drinking/being under the influence.
Isolating/Avoiding social situations, family/friends to consume alone.
Episodes of Depression, Anger and/or Violence.
Taking Risks that can impact your life or the life of others.
Not knowing when to stop drinking or consuming illegal/controlled substances.
Driving under the influence.
Getting arrested due to behavior exhibited while intoxicated/under the influence.
Losing relationships.
Risky behaviors that can impact your life and the lives of others.
Financial hardships due the substance use.
Do any of the signs or behaviors of addiction reflect your current situation? If so, please reach out for help. The hardest step is admitting that you have a substance abuse addiction and that you need help, support, treatment and intervention. Admitting is not easy as you may encounter feelings of shame, isolation, loneliness, denial. Just know you are not alone. There are many people who experience addiction in their lives and also want to live a sober lifestyle. Taking the first step to recovery is the biggest gift you can give yourself. Can you imagine, living a sober life and taking charge of your journey in a healthy manner? Wow, how liberating must that be! Getting to know your inner self by healing the wounds that led you to numbing pain through addiction can drive you to new beginnings and self-discovery. What are you waiting for?
Treatment/Support:
Individual, group, and family therapy
Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment
Residential/Inpatient Treatment
NA/AA Classes
Obtaining a Sponsor
SAMHSA Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4257)
As a clinician at Central Counseling Services I am here to help. I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adults and families exposed to violence, victims of child abuse/neglect, substance abuse addiction, parenting challenges and trauma.
My focus is to help you heal through the therapeutic process by supporting you in developing healthy coping skills, utilizing your strengths, building awareness, setting healthy boundaries and allowing the time and space to heal. My treatment approach is eclectic as I utilize various modalities of treatment emphasizing on cognitive behavioral therapy. If you are interested in therapeutic services, please do not hesitate to give us a call: (951) 778-0230.
