Addiction can have devastating consequences for the individual who is suffering and their loved ones. Hitting rock bottom is a phrase commonly used to describe a time when a person’s life has become unmanageable due to addiction. Rock bottom is the lowest point a person can reach before they decide to seek help and start their journey of recovery.
The gift of hitting rock bottom is that it can often be a turning point for a new beginning. But you don’t have to wait for rock bottom to seek help. In fact, it can be too easy to keep delaying treatment, rationalizing that you haven’t reached rock bottom yet. The best approach to substance use disorder is to seek help as soon as you recognize a problem.
Warning Signs That Someone Needs Treatment
The signs that someone has developed an addiction and needs professional help can vary from person to person. However, some common warning signs include the following:
- Relationship problems. Due to their addiction, the person may have difficulties in their relationships with family and friends. They may isolate themselves more, get into arguments, or damage connections with those closest to them.
- Health problems. Addiction will inevitably lead to health problems, and these can become quite serious. The person may develop liver damage, heart disease, or cancer; they may have a stroke.
- Financial problems. Addiction can lead to financial problems. It may be possible to get by at work for some time without anyone noticing a change. However addiction will eventually affect a person’s ability to do their job, and even if they are still working, they may experience financial problems because of the money spent on substances.
- Legal problems. The person may face legal problems due to their addiction, such as getting arrested for drug possession or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
What to Do to Help
If you suspect someone needs addiction treatment, one of the most important things to do is to offer them support. Let them know that you are there for them and that you can help them find the help they need. Offer to help them find a recovery center or meet with a therapist or addiction specialist who can help put them on the journey to recovery.
Understand that recovery can be challenging. It is a process that takes time and effort. The person must be willing to commit to it fully. Be patient and supportive throughout the journey, even though it may be difficult, and set boundaries to protect yourself and your loved ones. If the person refuses to seek treatment, make it clear what behaviors you are not willing to tolerate. Maybe you will not loan them money. Maybe you will not let them live with you as long as they are using substances. When you refuse to enable their behavior, they will probably be more motivated to seek help.
Treatment Options for Addiction
At Mountain Laurel Recovery Center and other recovery centers, there are many treatment options available for addiction. The approach will depend on the individual’s specific needs and the severity of their addiction. Some common treatment options include:
- Inpatient residential treatment. Inpatient residential treatment involves staying at a recovery center for a set period of time, usually at least 30 days. This type of treatment provides a structured environment where individuals can focus on their recovery without being distracted by home or work responsibilities.
- Outpatient treatment. Outpatient treatment involves attending therapy sessions and support groups on a regular basis while still living at home. This type of treatment can be more flexible and allows individuals to continue working or going to school while in recovery.
- Medically supervised detox treatment. Medically supervised detox treatment involves the use of medication to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The person will have 24-hour nursing care and a physician on hand to monitor the detox process. Detox should be followed by inpatient or outpatient care.
- Therapy. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help individuals change the negative thought patterns that contributed to their addiction.
- Support groups. Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide a safe and supportive outlet for individuals to share their experiences and receive encouragement from others who share similar experiences.
We are Here to Help
Have you or a loved one hit rock bottom and need a trusted recovery center? The caring, professional staff at Mountain Laurel Recovery Center is here to help. Our Pennsylvania recovery center has a range of tools and resources to put you on the path to a lasting recovery. To find out more about what programs and services we have to offer, please contact us today!
