Many people today get into alcohol or drugs to take their attention and minds off the troubles they have every day. But for some who want to change the course of their lives, they would like to take the brave step and seek help.
By reaching out to loved ones and professionals, you can access the much-needed support and resources as you start your journey to recovery.
1. Acknowledge that You Have a Problem
The very first step before you ask for help is to acknowledge that you do have a problem. Every doctor you know would tell you that they can never treat someone who doesn’t admit that they’re sick. The assessment stage will only start after you pass through the “admitting” section.
Acknowledging that you have a problem is especially crucial in drug or alcohol addiction recovery. It deals with recognizing the adverse impact your substance abuse has on your life and relationships. By admitting your issue, you can now open doors to assistance or support to initiate positive change.
It’s self-awareness that creates a mindset conducive to recovery, enabling you to confront the many challenges with courage and determination to get well. Through your acceptance, you make a way to access the many support systems available as you go through the path to recovery.
2. Join a Support Group
Consider joining support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), where you can find solace, understanding, and strength among individuals dealing with alcoholism and drug addiction.
These groups provide a platform for sharing experiences, including the challenges and triumphs of navigating treatment options for opioid addiction. A significant aspect of recovery is understanding the full spectrum of treatment, including medications like Suboxone, used for opioid use disorder (OUD).
Suboxone, a buprenorphine medication, has been a cornerstone in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) since its FDA approval in 2002. However, it’s crucial for individuals on this recovery path to be aware of all potential side effects, including serious dental complications linked to its sublingual use.
These complications were not initially disclosed by the manufacturer, leading to a wave of Suboxone tooth decay lawsuits against Indivior Inc., the primary manufacturer, for their failure to warn users.
These lawsuits highlight the importance of being informed and vigilant about the medications used in recovery. If you or someone you know began using Suboxone before June 2022 and experienced dental issues, you might be eligible to participate in these lawsuits.
3. Research Treatment Options
After you’ve acknowledged to yourself that you need help, it may also entail looking into the different treatment options available for you, like therapy, support groups, or rehabilitation centers. You need to decide for yourself what might work best with you.
You can consider the people you can work with and the environment, like therapy session clinics, rehabilitation centers, or a medical professional. It would be best if you could do a little backgrounder and find out what aligns best with your needs and preferences.
4. Seek Professional Help
You can visit and consult with a healthcare professional or addiction specialist anytime. They are the best people to provide guidance on the best course of action and connect you to appropriate resources.
You’re not too far from recovery when you reach out to people, especially professionals who can give you directions and options for your best course of action. They can also effectively connect you with appropriate resources on your road to wellness.
5. Develop Coping Strategies
It will never be too late or early to start with healthy coping mechanisms to deal with your cravings and triggers. It may include practicing mindfulness, where you get to console and let yourself be engaged with the now and concentrate on how your recovery steps become effective.
You can also start exercising and engaging in hobbies and physical activities as part of your personal strategies to cope with the side effects of addiction. You’ll go through the process, so it’s best for you to make these strategies part of your lifestyle so they can’t be easily disregarded when cravings attack.