Millions of people every year find themselves addicted to something. Many people become addicted to substances – like alcohol, marijuana, heroin, cocaine or nicotine. However, people also become addicted to certain behaviors, like gambling, shopping, using the internet or sex, that can get in the way of their work and other relationships.
You may have always believed you were in control. You never realized that it would affect your job or your family. Perhaps you are experiencing legal and financial stress. When you find yourself dealing with any sort of addiction, you may find yourself feeling buried by stressors that you certainly do not need. Like most people, you never sought to become addicted. But over time, the addiction gradually took over your life, becoming the most important thing in it.
Sometimes, it can be very difficult to recognize that you have an addiction. When you find yourself relying on drugs, alcohol or behavior patterns that are potentially harmful to your health, relationships and quality of life, you may be facing an addiction.
Overcoming an addiction involves giving up something that you have come to think you need, and is not easy for most people. Fortunately, contrary to popular belief, you do not have to hit “rock bottom” to begin to make positive changes in your life.
Recognizing an addiction
Knowing when you or a loved one has an addiction to drugs, alcohol or specific behavior can sometimes be challenging. We often find ourselves in denial that there is a problem, and when we are confronted, we may make excuses or blame others. Family members of someone with addiction sometimes enable those behaviors by ignoring the problem or by trying to rescue the person each time their addiction gets them into trouble.
To deal with an addiction, you first have to recognize that there is a problem. Here are some questions to consider. If you wonder if you’re in denial, check with your family and friends to see how they would answer these questions for you.
Do you feel that you need to use drugs or alcohol or engage in behaviors such as gambling regularly or multiple times per day?
Have you been absent from work repeatedly to engage in addictive behaviors?
Have you tried to stop or cut back and been unsuccessful?
Do you find yourself using drugs or alcohol or engaging in behaviors when feeling stressed instead of dealing with your problems head-on?
Has your use of alcohol, drugs or your behavior increased over time?
Do you think about using or engaging in the behavior so much that you cannot concentrate on other things?
Has your performance at work deteriorated as a result of this problem?
If you are using drugs or alcohol, do you have to drink or use drugs to avoid withdrawal symptoms such as hangovers, shaking, nausea or vomiting?
Have your friends or family expressed concern about your drug/alcohol use or other behaviors?
Do you find yourself going out of your way to get the drugs and alcohol or to engage in the behavior, such as driving long distances or avoiding places where you can’t use drugs, alcohol or engage in the behavior?
If you answer “yes” to some or all of these questions, it may be time to consider getting help. Coping with an addiction can be difficult, but it is not something anyone must do alone. Support is available for anyone dealing with addiction. Contact your EAP for assistance.
