How do I know if I need treatment?
If you have tried to stop multiple times with no avail, chances are you need help. Treatment is helpful because there is a level of accountability and because of the group nature the feelings of isolation slip away. Some individuals may need to be taken out of their environment for a certain period of time to deal with their addiction and psychological trauma.
What do I do if I have to go to an event where there is alcohol?
Alcohol is legal and it is inevitable to be around. I f you have to be somewhere where there is alcohol the most important thing is having a plan of action and remembering that you are powerless over this substance. Taking your own car, brining someone with you, having phone numbers of people you can call if you feel uncomfortable, having a time limit are all things you can do to help you.
What are triggers?
Triggers are events, people, situations that may lead you back to using. Two major components that underlie the addictive process are excitement seeking and tension reduction. Any of these two components can lead a person back into the addiction cycle. Parents, friends, anger, sadness, clubs, loneliness, anxiety, unmet sexual needs, depression, criticism. In other words life can be a trigger. I believe the important things to remember is that you have a disease and you need to be vigilant about your surroundings and emotions.
Never drink again?
Many young adults who suffer from addiction have this same question. It’s scary to think you can never have a drink again. Thankfully it is one day at a time. If you use some form of treatment,/12 step program, it can be done and you will have a complete and fulfilling life. Remember alcohol is a substance that changes your mood, in recovery you will find natural things that will have the same effect without the negative consequences produced by the drugs or alcohol.
Can I drink non-alcoholic beer if I am an Alcoholic?
This is not suggested because even these drinks have some alcohol content. So basically 6 non-alcoholic beers is the equivalent to one beer. Alcoholics drink for the effect produced by the alcohol. So if you start drinking these and begin feeling some effect chances are you will switch to the real thing. Also the mind has euphoric recall, so you will begin to remember the good times of drinking once you start having the taste of alcohol.
Is therapy right for me?
Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one’s life such as a divorce or work transition. Many seek the advice of counsel as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. Therapy can help address many types of issues including depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues,