One of the first steps to overcoming addiction is accepting that there is a problem, but substance abuse is often difficult to recognize and accept. Denial, stigma, and a lack of self-awareness prevent millions of Americans from seeking help for their addictions each year. According to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), over 18 million Americans failed to receive much-needed treatment for addiction in 2017.
One of the first steps to overcoming addiction is accepting that there is a problem, but substance abuse is often difficult to recognize and accept. Denial, stigma, and a lack of self-awareness prevent millions of Americans from seeking help for their addictions each year. According to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), over 18 million Americans failed to receive much-needed treatment for addiction in 2017.
If you’ve come to the realization that you have a problem with addiction, you’re already on the road to recovery. But just knowing you have a problem is not enough to overcome it. It’s time to reach out for help. Addiction rehab may be the next step. Getting help today can mean the difference between life and death. There’s no better time than the present to start your journey toward sobriety.
The best time to go to rehab is now
Addiction is a chronic, progressive disorder. The longer you struggle with substance abuse, the harder it is to quit. Left untreated, addiction can be fatal – long-term use of drugs and alcohol can lead to liver failure, kidney damage, heart disease, and significant changes in brain chemistry and function. As your tolerance for certain drugs increases, you become more susceptible to suffering a deadly overdose – which means the next time you drink or do drugs could be your last.
When you’re trapped in the throes of addiction, though, moments of clarity about your situation are few and far between. That’s why it’s important to seek help as soon as you realize you need it.
Without rehab, your addiction will get worse
According to the NSDUH, some of the most common reasons people give for not seeking treatment include concern that going to rehab might have a negative effect on their job, or that members of their community might see them in a negative light. But the truth is, without rehab, your addiction will only continue to get worse and wreak havoc on your job, your health, and your relationships. Participating in a strong, reputable addiction rehab program will decrease your risk of suffering drastic and even irreparable consequences.
Signs you need rehab for your addiction
If you’ve tried and failed to stop drinking or doing drugs on your own, then you most likely need help to get sober. Some other signs that you need addiction treatment include:
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You experience withdrawal symptoms
People with a physical dependency on drugs or alcohol often suffer from headaches, nausea, shaking, cramps, or insomnia when they stop using.
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You engage in risky behaviors while under the influence
Drinking or doing drugs often results in dangerous behaviors, like risky sexual encounters or driving while under the influence.
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You lie about your substance use
Shame or denial can cause addicts to lie to their friends and loved ones about how much they’re really using.
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Your friends or family have expressed concern
When the people closest to you also notice your excessive drug or alcohol intake, that means the problem isn’t all in your head.
Addiction treatment works
No matter the stage of your addiction, rehab is always an option. And when you receive high-quality care at a qualified and experienced treatment center, your chances of maintaining long-term sobriety are extremely high. Reputable addiction programs will usually include the following:
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Medically supervised detox
If you’ve been using drugs or alcohol for a long time, you may need medical support to get through the potentially dangerous symptoms of withdrawal.
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Group and individual counseling
Once you’re over the initial detox period, you’ll undergo an intense, extended period of psychotherapy, in both one-on-one and group sessions.
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Dual diagnosis support
Many people who struggle with an addictive disorder are also suffering from an underlying mental illness. Receiving proper mental health care is key in addiction recovery.
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Aftercare planning
Addiction is a lifelong battle, and a good treatment center will help you plan for long-term sobriety and teach you coping mechanisms to handle the challenges ahead.
Rehab at Alvarado Parkway Institute in San Diego
If you’re ready to conquer your addiction, Alvarado Parkway Institute can help. The dedicated physicians, nurses, and counselors at both our inpatient treatment center and outpatient rehab clinic will provide you with the individualized care you need to live a healthy, sober life.
Don’t delay rehab. Call us at (619) 485-1432 today. Your recovery begins now.
