How do I know if I’m an addict?
I’m in control of my drinking and I only use drugs recreationally
How do I know if i’m an addict? At one point or another in your life you have probabaly asked yourself “am I an alcoholic or an addict?“. Drinking alcohol and causally using substances is so embedded in our society that we don’t always realize that it can be harmful in the long term. It is an easy and slow path to addiction if you aren’t careful and unfortunately, addiction/alcoholism is a cunning disease that sneaks up on you. It starts out with a little cocaine or ketamine on the weekends, a drink or two after work, or a big night at the pub with friends on weekends. Nothing wrong there, you might think. But soon you find your weekend habits occurring more frequently until it becomes a daily habit.
I’m not an addict
That might be the first sentence someone on the path to addiction might tell themselves. Society tells us that addicts are homeless, unemployed or even crazy but breaking through that stigma is the first step toward treating addiction of any kind. It is hard to admit to others, and even harder to admit to ourselves.
When we think of an addict, we think of a homeless person living under a bridge or in a tent city. “I have a home; I have a family and I hold down a job”. Just because you have these things in your life currently doesn’t mean you aren’t at risk for addiction. Once the path down addiction gets rolling you find that these things slip away very quickly.
What are my options?
Addiction has ruined many lives but doesn’t have to ruin yours. Addiction and even alcholism are progressive diseases. Without treatment they will only become worse over time. The sad fact is that many people are unaware that help is available to break the cycle and live a fulfilling life without drugs or alcohol.
Options include Addiction Counseling, Recovery Coaching or even Treatment. If you’re not sure where to begin, take the first step by giving us a call. Our network of Certified Addiction Counsellors will work with you for free and confidentially to help you stay safe while taking control of your life again. We will work with you to assess your situation and suggest options that fit with your existing committments to family, work, etc…
How can I enjoy life without alcohol or drugs?
Many people are afraid to take the first step because they can’t imagine going throuhg the day with a drink or a little bump. To them, a life without alcohol or drugs seems scary and unappealing, but there is so much more to life than being under the influence of dangerous substances. The highs you can reach without substances can be powerful and exciting, so many beautiful moments can be created just by being present and anchored to reality. Living a sober life might be hard at first, but it will ultimately help you feel more stable, in control of your actions, and much more optimistic about the future.
Let us help
Get in touch with us now for a free and confidential conversation on the options available to you. Don’t let the stigma of addiction keep you from enjoying life to its full potential.
Take the 1 -Minute Self Assessment Questionnaire
These 12 questions will help determine if you or a loved one needs help.