Facing up to the fact that you have an addiction is never going to be easy, but if you have made the decision to get help, you need to be ready to follow through. Hopefully, you are at the stage where you know how damaging your addiction can be.
Unfortunately, many addicts live in denial for a long time before finally realising that their illness is causing negative consequences for them and their family members. They may have been listening to loved ones telling them they needed help for a long time before they faced up to the truth themselves. This is very common among those suffering from addiction.
In most instances, it is easier for the addict to say that he or she does not have a problem; that his or her life is actually okay. Some find it easier to blame others for their addictive behaviour, such as their spouse, parents or boss. Many more affected individuals believe that now is not the right time to quit.
Hitting Rock Bottom
Some addicts are under the impression that they have to hit rock-bottom before reaching out for help. They believe that they have to be falling down drunk and be on the verge of losing everything before seeking professional help. This is simply not true; rock bottom is that place where you feel you are ready to make a change. It is not necessary to wait until you reach a point where you cannot go any lower.
Some people know very early that they are struggling with addictive behaviours. They realise that they are losing control of their drinking of drug-taking and are aware that this has to stop. However, others are oblivious to the fact that their drinking has crossed a line. These individuals fail to realise that they are now drinking more than before to or are drinking more frequently. Some drink habitually every night and have never tried to quit, not realising that they have become physically dependent on alcohol.
Sadly, many addicts do not get help until they really cannot go any lower. They have lost their job, their family has left, and they are on the verge of becoming homeless. Others only wake up to the fact that addiction has taken over when they put another persons life in danger while intoxicated or when a doctor tells them that they will die if they do not stop drinking.
Ready for Change
If you are aware that you have a problem, ask yourself if you are willing to make a change. There is no point in stubbornly holding out for something more extreme to happen before you commit to recovery. If you know you have a problem, now is the time to put things right.
Entering a rehabilitation programme will mean you have the opportunity to make a real change in your life and the lives of the people who love you. You may be of the opinion that you are beyond help, but this is not the case. Many individuals with addiction have already overcome their addictions with the right help and support, and you can too.
How will Rehab Help?
If you make the commitment to recovery, your life will change for the better. You will be able to enjoy the world again and will once again have the ability to make good choices. You will find pleasure in spending time with your family and friends, and you can enjoy hobbies, nature, music and activities that do not involve drugs or alcohol.
You will learn to love yourself and others once again and will no longer be ruled by your next drink or your next fix. In addition, your health and appearance will improve.
