If you or a family member have a problem with drugs or alcohol it can be hard to accept that help is needed, at least initially. As time goes by and the problem worsens you may begin to consider a substance abuse treatment program. Good for you! This is an important and encouraging sign. Wanting to do something to free yourself of your addictive tendencies is a step in the right direction and a sure sign that you want to take control of your life. You should never feel embarrassed about having a problem and don’t feel bad if you didn’t recognize the warning signs early on, all that matters is that you are now committed to getting help. If you are wondering how to get substance abuse treatment for yourself, a relative or a child, read on.
Why Do People Become Addicted?
Children and teens feel intense pressure to try alcohol, tobacco, and drugs but adults also use these to socialize or escape from their problems. Our society is one in which experimentation is encouraged and we are constantly bombarded with messages that encourage the use of alcohol and prescription drugs. Try not to blame yourself or your child if you or they have a substance abuse problem. There is some evidence that the tendency to substance abuse is inherited.
Some options you may want to consider to combat substance abuse are listed below:
* Your local substance abuse or anti-drug coalition can refer you to a treatment provider. If you want to find one in you area, go to http://www.helpyourcommunity.org for a list of options.
* Your county probably has substance abuse treatment services linked to the health department and will be a good source of information about treatment centers in the area as well as free programs and services. Search the agencies under ‘alcohol and drug programs’ or ‘behavioral health’ or ‘mental health services’ to see what is available.
* A website like http://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/faq.htm (Frequently Asked Questions page) will connect you with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator.
This site also includes a quick search to help you obtain details of substance abuse treatment programs in your area.
