Facing the Facts: Three Signs It's Time to Address Your Alcohol or Drug Addiction

Alcohol and drug addiction is an issue facing millions of Americans, many of whom unfortunately fail to acknowledge they have a problem and seek necessary help. The reality is that many individuals are in denial about their addictions, shrugging them off or pretending their behaviors are completely normal.

It’s important to understand you do not have to be physically addicted to a substance to have a problem. Here are three key signs it’s time to address your alcohol or drug use:

You have driven a car intoxicated or high.

While this may not seem like a big deal the first time it happens, even just one incident of being drunk or high when operating a vehicle needs to be taken very seriously. Being just a little buzzed behind the wheel puts not only yourself, but others in danger – including passengers, pedestrians and other drivers on the road. The very act of driving under the influence indicates that you may lack self-awareness and control. Regardless of how minor a driving incident may seem, this is a major red flag that it’s time to seek help and get a handle on your issue.

You’re at risk of losing your job or getting kicked out of school.

Many people with addictions gradually begin taking a downward spiral in many aspects of their lives. What may start as missing deadlines at work or arriving late to class can turn into detrimental, life-altering situations. If you’re at risk of losing your job or dropping out of school, you need to re-evaluate your alcohol or drug use immediately and seek help from a trusted professional. The sooner you take action and come to terms with your problem, the less damage your issue will have on your future.

You’ve struggled to quit.

If you’ve tried to quit and have struggled to break away from substance abuse, this is a clear sign you have a physical addiction. This means you need to seek help immediately to get proper clinical counseling and treatment before your addiction becomes worse. Early intervention can help you break bad habits in the beginning stages of addiction and set you up for better rehab outcomes.

When it comes to drug or alcohol addiction, it’s a mistake to think you can quit on your own. It’s time to seek the help of an experienced therapist who can help put you on the path to recovery. Act now and get in touch with Joseph Montaldi, LCSW, based in San Antonio, Texas, at (210) 722-4714.