Most individuals struggling with addiction find it difficult to ask for help for fear of being judged. It is the attitude that society has toward addicts that makes most of them shy from finding help. Regardless, here are ways in which you can ask for help if you struggle with addiction.
1. Use a Letter or an Email
It might not be a preference for everyone, but the writing lets you open up about almost anything. You have the freedom to dictate how you start speaking, and there won’t be anyone to interrupt.
Also, you won’t be scared to see the other person’s reaction to your confessions and request help. Write an email to someone you trust, be it a friend or family member, explaining your condition and the desire to seek help.
2. Speak to a Medical Professional
Medical professionals have experience dealing with people in your situation, so seeking help won’t be new information. Most of them will be excited about your decision and will help you get started without judging.
They will explain the treatment process and how long it will take to recover. In case they ask questions, it will be about understanding the situation and developing an approach on how to offer treatment.
3. Talk to Someone on the Phone or Online
The internet is an excellent source for anyone seeking to find help for addiction. There are anonymous chat rooms, websites, and helpline numbers where you can ask for help. You will find people in similar situations or have experienced the same thing in chat rooms. They will be more than ready to help you through recovery.
Also, you may search online for addiction help centres and call the number provided or send an email. These centres have the best facilities to help you recover. For example, treatment may involve medical detox, especially if your situation is substance abuse.
4. Reach Out to Someone You Trust
If you have someone you feel comfortable around, try and speak to them about your situation. It doesn’t have to be a family member or relative; it could be your best friend or spouse. Freely talk about your struggle with addiction and explain why you think it’s time you sought help.
The person you reach out to may not have experience with addiction, but they have an idea of how it could be for you. They might have experienced other difficulties and were once in a situation like your current state. Also, they will be glad that you are seeking to fix your life and will help you get started with your recovery.
5. Find Someone With a Similar Experience
A self-help group is the best place to find people struggling with addiction or other challenges. Search online for a group near you and read its reviews. Once you feel confident in its capacity to help, contact them, and start your sessions.
You will likely find other people who just started their treatment or are considering getting professional help. These groups allow you to speak freely about your journey, struggles, pain, or broken relationships. After a few sessions, you will confidently talk to other people freely about the issues. It will also make it easy for you to overcome addiction once you begin treatment.
6. Set Your Expectations
Before asking for help, you must have specific goals concerning your recovery. Write down why you need to get help and the things you must achieve during and after treatment. If you have plans, it becomes easy to communicate your problem. You can freely explain the need for help and how your life will change once you recover.
Also, written goals will help you overcome the most difficult challenges, like the urge to use during treatment. Keep reading and updating your goals. Whenever you achieve a goal, celebrate it with friends or family to help you stay committed.
7. Go For Counseling
Counsellors are the first recommendation for people struggling with addiction or other issues like depression. Counsellors have professional qualifications to help struggling individuals, and the best part is your conversation is confidential.
You can speak about anything, including your worst fears or anger. These professionals will listen and help you get more courage to deal with the problem.
Don’t Give Up
Asking for help is the first step toward recovery for anyone struggling with addiction. It might seem complicated, but once you open up, everything else will fall into place.
Also, read:Â 5 Ways to Encourage Mental Wellness for Someone in Need
