It is a natural reaction for those who see potential problems looming to initially ignore them.

This is done in the belief they will simply disappear. The truth is that this rarely happens and it will never be the case for those who see their drug use or alcohol consumption continually increase.

Fun turns to need:

Initial use of substances or getting a taste for alcohol creeps up on many. What used to be once or twice a week turns into 3 or 4 times and before the person knows it they are indulging on a daily basis.

More required to achieve the same level:

This gradual but steady increase is caused because the body and mind like what is being received and build a tolerance to it.

The problem with tolerance is that it is never satisfied. So, to achieve the same good feelings as previously experienced, more is required.

It goes without saying that the more taken, the more required. This continued upward cycle leads to dependence. Once a person is dependent upon a substance they simply cannot do without it.

Reluctance to seek help:

It would seem sensible that anyone with a drug or drink problem would be eager to seek professional help in their attempts to quit.

While it may seem sensible there are several reasons why assistance is not sought:

  • Embarrassment – Most people with dependence issues or those rapidly heading towards it keep the problem to themselves. They fear an announcement of their problem will cause themselves as well as those closest to them huge embarrassment. Reality needs to step in again; those around you will be aware that something is amiss.
  • Denial – This is a major weapon in the armoury of those with dependence issues. They will work overtime to convince themselves and others that the problem is nowhere near as serious as it really is. Deep down they know it is far more serious. While denial is maintained, help will not be sought.
  • Fear – This comes in 2 strands. The fear of what is involved regarding treatment, and more significantly the fear of how they will possibly cope with something that is now an integral and essential part of daily life. While both of these fears are understandable they cannot and must not be used as an excuse to prevent much needed treatment.

Overcoming these hurdles:

A person with drug or alcohol issues can allay their embarrassment, denial and fear relating to their substance abuse by talking with a qualified counsellor at an outpatient rehab centre, or, take the more dedicated route of contacting a counsellor at an inpatient rehab establishment.

These committed individuals will explain there is no embarrassment whatsoever in the fact that drugs or alcohol currently have the better of you.

They will applaud your decision to end denial and encourage you to maintain this stance.

Finally, they will discuss your valid fears relating to treatment methods and how the future will be without drink or drugs.

Clear explanations will be given and punches will not be pulled, but they will offer a very positive and achievable route in terms of leaving drug or alcohol dependence where it belongs; in the distant past.