How Do I Know When to Seek Treatment for Substance Abuse?

Substance use disorder (SUD) occurs when an individual develops an unhealthy dependence on a specific substance, such as alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs. This dependence can manifest as a compulsive need to use the substance despite its adverse effects on various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and physical health.

As the disorder progresses, individuals often experience a range of emotional and psychological challenges, such as confusion, anxiety, and hopelessness. These feelings can create a sense of isolation, making it difficult to reach out for help. While recognizing that assistance is needed is an essential first step, many people are unsure where to seek support.

Timely intervention for substance abuse is critical. Addressing the condition early reduces the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms and increases the chances of a full recovery. It can also help you avoid financial strain, relationship breakdown, and career problems that can emerge during episodes of drug abuse.

Recognizing the Signs of Substance Abuse

It can be difficult to properly assess the severity of your substance use as you can’t always analyze the situation objectively. However, some key indicators can be used to help you better evaluate your situation:

Behavioral changes

Behavioral changes are usually the most obvious signs in the early stages of substance use disorders. These changes can manifest in a near-infinite number of ways but are generally characterized by actions and mindsets that are out of character for an individual. These may include alterations in how you interact with others, lowered performance at work, diminished interest in hobbies, and more.

Time management may also become difficult as you notice a shift in your priorities. For example, rather than sticking to a regular routine, like showering and going to work, you spend your time trying to access specific substances. Severity can vary but can range from small cravings to dismissing responsibilities to prioritize substance use.

Physical symptoms

After several days or weeks of abuse, you may also start noticing physical changes. For example, some substances can cause your weight to fluctuate, while others can affect your physical appearance. Amphetamines can hollow out the face and create large, hive-like swellings on the eyelids, lips, and tongue. Other substances, such as alcohol, leave your skin looking wrinkled, dull, and gray.

In addition to the substance's physical side effects, your personal hygiene may also begin to suffer. As the need for substance use becomes more consuming, you may become less focused on maintaining appearances. Some of these changes may not be noticeable when looking at yourself but can be extremely obvious to others.

Emotional and mental health indicators

Lastly, your emotional and mental health may also start to suffer. As drugs mess with brain chemicals, it is not uncommon to experience increased mental illness while consuming certain substances. You may experience mood swings, anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment when using some drugs.

Even seeing these signs, you may still feel some resistance to seeking help. You may not want treatment, or you may think nothing’s wrong. Honesty and acceptance within yourself can be one of the most challenging yet crucial steps to recovery.

Assessing the Severity of the Problem

If you think you may be struggling with an addiction, the next step is to assess the severity of the problem. Documenting your substance abuse can help you properly gauge your physical and mental health as well as the treatment you require.

Start by considering how often you consume the substance. Daily consumption generally indicates a more severe problem than if use is only required on a monthly or weekly basis.

Also, try to notice how it affects your personal and professional life. Substance abuse can cause work performance to decline and lead to issues with your family and loved ones. The best approach is to be honest about how the problem affects you. Avoid the temptation to minimize or make it seem smaller than it is.

Another good way to gauge your current situation is by monitoring withdrawal symptoms and their severity. If you try to go without using the substance for a certain period of time but find it difficult or nearly impossible, getting help is essential.

Common withdrawal signs to watch out for include:

Cravings
Depression
Fatigue
Fever/chills
Flashbacks
Hallucinations
Irritability
Muscle aches
Sleep disturbances
Stomach pain
Sweating
Vomiting

Unfortunately, some withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous and even life-threatening. As such, it is often necessary to seek professional help for a safe detox.

When to Seek Professional Help

You should seek help for substance abuse as soon as you think you might have a problem. Don’t give up hope if the issue has been ongoing for a long time; the most important steps you can take are to work your way to a full recovery from wherever you currently are.

Seeking advice and input from loved ones can help you determine the best course of action. Often, they can support you and direct you to get the treatment you need.

Self-assessment tools

If you aren’t sure if you need help, we offer self-assessment tools for alcohol, cocaine, heroin, meth, opioid, and fentanyl addiction. These quizzes ask simple questions to learn more about your situation and the next steps you should take.

Substance abuse treatment

The treatment you receive depends on the specifics of your addiction. Usually, we begin with an initial assessment to discuss your history, mental and physical health, and the substances in question. Then, a personalized treatment plan is created.

After that comes detox–often the most challenging part of recovery. It’s best to stop using substances while under medical supervision, as withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks and range in severity.

During this time, it is wise to receive therapy and counseling. This approach aims to get to the root of your substance abuse and heal the underlying issues that might be contributing to it. Individual, group, and family therapy can all be effective ways of gaining insight.

Types of Treatment Available

Residential treatment, sometimes called “inpatient treatment,” is where you reside in a treatment facility during your withdrawal phase. During this time, you receive 24/7 care from doctors, therapists, and peers.

This treatment is for people with severe addictions and is also the best way to successfully leave your substance use behind. It keeps you away from negative influences in your life and helps you rediscover your strength. You also gain the resources and support you need to avoid relapsing and start a new life.

Outpatient treatment is another option that provides flexibility by allowing you to live at home while participating in regular therapy sessions and recovery activities. This approach is often ideal for individuals with milder addictions or for those transitioning from inpatient care who need continued support as they reintegrate into daily life.

Substance Abuse Treatment Near You

If you want to take the next step in tackling your substance abuse, you’re already on the right path. Seeking treatment provides you with the support you need to overcome addictions and take back your life. Our team is here to help you every step of the way with compassion.

Contact Jackson House Recovery Centers today for more information on what we do and how we can help you recover from substance abuse.

30 Aug 2024

Sobriety