Although we might try to extend a helping hand and do as much as we can for them, sometimes, addicts do tend to make us angry. While that is certainly understandable (for the most part), you have to remember that these people are suffering from a mental illness and do not have control over what they put in their mouths, veins, and nostrils. Ultimately, though, what is even harder than pinpointing an addict is trying to figure out who will become one. At first, regular people and potential addicts can mingle in a crowd, and you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between the normal person and the individual with the mental problem. However, as people like to say, “All it takes is one drink or one puff.” After that, the ball of mud gets rolling. Let’s take a closer look at the sad truth about the lives of addicts and take some time to see if you could become one.
A Life of Secrecy and Self-Pity
Unfortunately, the only way you can tell if you are an addict (until science advances further) is taking the first drink of alcohol or the first puff off a cigarette. Once the consequences of your drug use completely counterbalance the rewards of health, you realize this person is suffering from addiction. In laymen’s terms, binge drinkers and habitual smokers are not addicts, but frequent and chronic users most definitely are.
Likewise, when a human being completely forgets how to predict final outcomes of drinking or drugging, this is also a strong sign of addiction. Besides being rooted in irrational behavior, addiction and alcoholism are also shrouded in self-pity and dishonesty. Addicts will go to any lengths to get their dangerous substances, even if that means lying to a loved one or a child.
Not a Question of Morality
Remember, though, a lot of a drug addicts and alcoholics are good, loving people. They have just been swept away by the overwhelming power of their mental problem. At their core, drug addiction and alcoholism are chronic, degenerative brain diseases that can lead to disaster if left untreated. In this case, loved ones should try (or struggle in some cases) to build a sense of empathy as their addicted friend, child, or spouse suffers through withdrawal and rehab. If you show them love, they will learn to hold onto that love and feel more hope.
Always remember that drugs and alcohol do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or addiction troubles today.
