Substance abuse affects more than 20 million people in the USA. It leads to family breakups, financial instability, and ruined careers. Many people don’t realize how strong the addiction is until it ultimately grounds their lives.
If you’re trying to change your life, it will not be a walk in the park, but it’s worth all the effort. Discovering the problem is the first step towards overcoming drug addiction. Here are four vital decisions to make to help you get past an addiction.
Find Professional Help
Fighting an addiction is not easy, but professionals can help you through the process. Eventually, you will define goals, improve your mindset, learn healthy lifestyle habits, and be happier and healthier overall.
Addiction affects your brain, making you crave or hunger for drugs. When addicts decide to quit using, the reality and challenge of withdrawal symptoms require careful monitoring by a professional.
Make sure you’re working with reputable and highly experienced people who will help you through these difficult times. A local establishment is usually a better option. For instance, look for a Rehab in New Jersey if you reside in the area for quality care that is close to home.
During rehab, you may experience some of the following symptoms:
- Upset stomach
- Muscle aches
- Excessive sweating or cold chills
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Runny nose
- Hot/cold flashes
- Knock-knees and leg cramps
- Low energy or fatigue
- Irritability, mood swings, anger or sadness
- Headaches and insomnia
- Changed appetite
Depending on how intense the withdrawal symptoms are, the professionals might recommend staying at a facility and could even prescribe medications to counter the effects. The first few weeks of recovery are the hardest, but you’ll pull through with proper care and support.
Let Loved Ones Know Your Decision
You have to let loved ones know about your decision to quit drugs and find help. You’ll need all the support you can get to overcome the challenges ahead. Understand that addiction also affects how your loved ones relate to you. Some might even cut you off, while others may not believe you, especially if you have tried to quit in the past. However, others will be ready to support you. Make this a chance to rebuild relationships with those close to you.
The fact that you are making the decision to get help indicates your willingness to change. If your loved ones understand the efforts you are making, they can support you by not doing or saying some things in your presence. For instance, when struggling with alcoholism, they will avoid getting you a drink or urging you to attend parties where alcohol will be a part of it.
Find Activities That Occupy Your Time
Quitting drugs is never easy. It will be hard at the beginning as your willpower will be tested. However, when you’re busy or your mind is occupied, you’re less likely to think about drugs or withdrawal symptoms.
Look for activities that improve your life, mood and well-being. For instance, exercising not only builds muscle fitness and helps you relax, but it will also make you feel better about yourself. Other activities include going back to school or starting a new physically intensive job.
Cut Off Some People
When you’re determined to change your life, you have to cut off everyone who slows down your progress. They include friends who do drugs, negative people, and anyone who doesn’t care or understand your struggles and determination.
Focus instead on the people who inspire you to be better. Join support groups that connect you with other recovering addicts. You can freely talk about your problems and get guidance in the process. When you cut certain people from your social circles, you may have to stop going to certain places where they will be present, such as nightclubs you used to frequent.
Rebuild Your Life
As you overcome drug abuse, focus on rebuilding your life. Addiction can ruin your financial well-being, your relationships, your mental health, and your physical longevity in general. Make gradual steps to reclaim what addiction stole from you. Aim to build a new social network and identity. It’s not always easy, but it is possible if you put your mind to it.
