For some, alcohol and other substances can mean a good time, maybe even help that person to relax and unwind after a hard day, but for others, it can be a very serious and possibly life-threatening disease. Alcohol and substance abuse occurs when occasional and recreational use becomes a dependency and severely interferes with an individual’s daily routines and well-being. If you suffer from addiction, you’re not alone, here are ways you can find help:

1. Support groups
The first step to solving the problem is admitting you have one. Support groups offer a welcoming and supportive environment for somebody who is struggling with drugs and or alcohol. Everyone who attends these groups are either currently coping or have dealt with similar issues in the past. People in these groups often have a wealth of experience and knowledge in dealing with substance abuse and will genuinely care about you and your recovery. You can find these groups and meetings at many local clubs, churches, and hospitals.

2. Therapy
If groups aren’t your thing, you’re still better off not going it alone. Being part of a group or sharing problems with strangers can be intimidating to some people. If you’re one of those individuals, you may better benefit from one-on-one sessions with a counselor or therapist. Meeting privately with a skilled professional, you may feel more open about discussing your problems, allowing a clinician to recommend more personal therapies and treatments suited towards your individual needs. It’s important to realize as an addict, you can’t help yourself, the alcohol and substances take control, which is why it’s important you seek the help of specialists.

3. Rehabs and alcohol treatment centers
Sometimes in severe cases, talking and therapies are not enough, and it may be necessary to completely separate oneself from their surroundings to get better. Often, people, places, and things can serve as a trigger for continued use. A rehab or treatment center will not only prevent the feeding of one’s addictions, but also teach ways one can manage and suppress their cravings and urges. Upon returning to their daily lives, an individual is much more equipped to handle using thoughts and deal with stressors that may have previously resulted in relapse and continuing substance abuse. For maximum effectiveness, it’s suggested that after leaving a treatment program, an individual should still seek the help and guidance of a support group or therapist.

4. There are options
If drugs and alcohol have completely taken over your life, the important thing is to stop, get help, and seek the love and support of those who care about you. There are a lot of options out there for you to receive the care you need. If you’re worried about the cost, some cities and counties out there will actually sponsor your rehabilitation. Know you’re worth it that your life is priceless.