Do you have an adult family member or friend who has a drug or alcohol problem? You are possibly wondering how you can help. Here are solutions to questions you might be asking. Glendale addiction specialist can help.
Are you overreacting to a drug use problem?
If you see problems in a companion or someone who is a part of the family’s job, issues of self-respect, self-worth, respect for others, and the law; wellness; familial; wealth; relations; or interpersonal interaction; You are indeed not imagining things.
Even though it is a problem creator, using drugs is a one in and of itself. The benefits of drug use now outweigh the costs. If a person is unwilling to discuss the issue or even accept the possibility that there truly is a problem, it should raise red flags.
Some things you can do are:
- Read about the signs and symptoms of drug abuse.
- Closely watch the person’s behavior over a few days or weeks to figure out what makes you think there is a problem. This information will be helpful if you decide to talk to other family members about the problem, get advice from a professional, or talk directly to the person. But do not think you need a complete picture of the problem before.
- Share your thoughts with other family members and friends to see how they see the problem. If they all agree that there is a problem, decide who will talk to the person about getting help.
- Contact a professional in the field of drug abuse, mental health, a doctor, an employee assistance professional, a guidance counselor, a member of the clergy, or someone else who can help you. Tell the professional how your family member usually uses drugs to see if they think it is a problem.
- Ensure you and other family members are safe from possible physical or mental harm. You should make a safety plan if there is a threat or chance of physical violence.
The advantages of taking action early
It’s common in popular culture for characters to “hit rock bottom” before they’re rescued. It’s a lie, though. To receive assistance, one need not reach rock bottom. The best method to deal with a problem is to find it early on, according to the available research. Early identification happens when the first signs of a problem show up, before anyone has been through a stressful event, dropped out of school, or lost important relationships, jobs, health, or self-respect.
A health care professional screening, an employee aid professional, or a family member can do identification.