Pubdate: Tue, 14 Nov 2006 Source: Ashcroft Cache Creek Journal, The (CN BC) Copyright: 2006 Ashcroft Cache Creek Journal Contact: http://www.ash-cache-journal.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3157 Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/rehab.htm (Treatment) GETTING HELP FOR SUBSTANCE ABUSERS Substance use falls on a continuum based on frequency, intensity, and degree of dependency. The transition from use that may be "normal" to use that is problematic can be a slow, gradual process. Alternatively, problem substance use can occur more quickly, such as heavy drinking following a relationship loss, or increased dependence on pain medications following an accident. Addiction, the most serious level of substance use, is a disorder identified with loss of control, preoccupation with disabling substances, and continued use or involvement despite negative consequences. The problems that can develop from substance misuse vary from mild to severe, and can involve a multitude of life functioning areas. Problems experienced from substance misuse can include immediate consequences such as a hangover following a night of excessive alcohol consumption. However, as substance use becomes more problematic, individuals can experience larger losses such as legal consequences, job loss, health problems, relationship problems or increased debt. How quickly the use of alcohol or a drug becomes problematic, however, really depends on the individual, their behaviour, and factors within the physical, psychological, economic, spiritual, social, and legal contexts. What Do I Do If I Have a Problem With My Substance Use? Getting help for a substance use problem can be scary. If you believe that you have a problem with your substance use, you are likely feeling scared already. It is important to recognize that you are not alone. There are millions of people across North America struggling with substance use issues, many successfully. It is important to recognize that you can get help at any point along the way, and the sooner you address your problems, the sooner you can create the life that you really want. Some important steps that you can take if you have a problem with substance use include: 1. Get honest with yourself! You know deep down on some level that your use is a problem. It is time to be direct with yourself about this, so that you can address your needs head-on. The sooner you do, the easier it will be. 2. Challenge your fears! It is easy to believe that something is "wrong" with you, or that you are somehow weak, inadequate or sick because of your problems with substance use. These myths are not true. People use alcohol and other drugs to address a wide range of issues. It is important for you to discover yours. 3. Talk to someone about your problems and fears. You may want to involve someone close to you with your process, for additional support. This could be a spouse, friend, or family member. Just sharing your issues with someone you trust can make it much easier to reach out for additional support. 4. Reach out and get help! There are a variety of resources and services available for persons wanting help with a substance use problem. You can find out what kind of help is available from your doctor, clergy or an employee assistance program (EAP). Therapists, community health agencies and alcohol/other drug treatment programs also provide valuable services. Additional resource information can be found at the end of this article. Helping Someone Close to You With a Substance Use Problem Substance use problems impact not only the person using, but others around them. Experience shows that for every person with an alcohol or other drug problem, at least four others are affected by their behaviour. Frequently with problem substance use, it is family and friends who first recognize that a person's use of alcohol or other drugs has become problematic. Initially a person who sets out to help someone with a substance use problem can feel alone, embarrassed, and uncertain about where to turn to for help. You may not have much information about substance misuse, or have misinformation, thinking of persons who misuse drugs as having a lack of willpower or moral weakness. It is important for you to gain some understanding about substance use so that you can be as effective as possible in supporting your loved one, as well as addressing the impact their use has had on you. It is important to understand that each person is unique-in their reasons for using alcohol or drugs, their reactions to these drugs, and their readiness for treatment. While you are not responsible for their use or their recovery, you are in a good position to offer help and support, because you know their personal qualities and lifestyle well. On the previous page are some do's and don'ts that may help you in addressing the substance use of someone close to you. Where to Get Help in BC Phone Resources - Alcohol and Drug Referral Service: Information and referral service available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Toll free in BC: 1-800-663-1441. On-Line Resources - Substance Information Link: has a variety of resources from the Centre for Addictions Research of BC: www.silink.ca Problem Substance Use Workbook: A self-paced workbook to understanding more about the impacts of problem alcohol or drug use behaviour and treatments. www.heretohelp.bc.ca, click on Help Me With. Prevention Source BC: a variety of resources related to addiction, with a specific focus on prevention: www.preventionsource.org My Room: a kid's site: www.aadac4kids.com Zoot2: a site for teenagers: www.zoot2.com You and Me Smokefree!: an anti-smoking site from Health Canada, aimed at youth: www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hecs-sesc/tobacco/youth Self-help Organizations - Narcotics Anonymous (NA): www.bcrscna.bc.ca - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman