Alcohol and Other Drugs . . .Why Should I Get Help?
Before you decide that you don’t have a problem . . .
. . . you should know that anyone can develop a dependency on alcohol or other drugs. Young people are especially at risk because their bodies and personalities are still developing. No one knows how much time it takes to become chemically dependent. One thing is—the more often you use alcohol or other drugs, the greater your risks.
Chemical Dependence Usually Occurs in Stages
Early Stage: trying alcohol or other drugs occasionally; experiment
Middle Stage: getting “high” or drunk on weekends, after school, etc.; having problems because of useLate Stage: using alcohol or other drugs becomes the most important thing in life, regardless of the consequences
Do you know the facts?
Are the following statements fact or fiction?
Using alcohol or other drugs occasionally is harmless. This may be what you have heard, but using alcohol or other drugs just once can result in risky sexual behavior, car crashes and overdose.
Teenagers can’t become drug addicts or alcoholics. Age makes no difference when it comes to chemical dependency — neither does sex, race or economic background.
My friends use alcohol and other drugs without any problems. Take a closer look—people with alcohol and other drug related problems may be very good at hiding them.
Alcohol and other drugs help me feel good. This may be true for a short time, but after the effects wear off, you are likely to feel depressed. Alcohol and other drugs can also make you feel ill during and after use.
I need alcohol and other drugs to deal with my life. Alcohol and other drugs may seem to offer and escape, but it is only temporary. They end up creating more problems than they solve.
Everyone uses alcohol and other drugs now and then. In fact, millions of Americans of all ages have decided not to use alcohol or other drugs at all.
I can quit using alcohol and other drugs anytime I want. Most alcoholics and addicts say the same thing. Remember, most people are unable to quit for good without help.
Alcoholism and drug addiction only happen to people who deserve it. Being a “good or bad” person has nothing to do with developing a chemical dependency.
Learn the warning signs of alcohol and other drug problems
Changes in mood or behavior
Loss of interest in regular activities, such as hobbies and sports
Lower grades and general lack of interest in school
Withdrawal from family life
Secretiveness
Decreased energy and motivation
Overreaction to criticism
Sudden weight loss or changes in eating habits
Changing friendships and avoiding talking about these changes
Slurred speech, “glassy” eyes, unclear thinking, poor short-term memory
Self-Awareness Test for alcohol and other drug use
When describing your life, are the following statements true or false?
1. I’d rather “hang out” with people who use alcohol or other drugs than with those who don’t T F
2. I’ve driven a car while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs T F
3. I’ve borrowed or stolen money to buy alcohol or other drugs T F
4. I’ve had a black out (loss of memory) after using alcohol or other drugs T F
5. My grades have fallen/work performance has suffered since I began to use alcohol or other drugs T F
6. I want to be drunk or “high” all the time T F
7. I think about getting drunk or “high” when I’m sober T F
8. I have used alcohol or other drugs before, during, or after school or work T F
9. I regret things I’ve said or done while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs T F
10. I spend as much time as I used to on recreational activites or hobbies T F
11. A friend or family member told me I use alcohol or drugs too much T F
12. I use alcohol or other drugs to help me escape from problems T F
13. I feel more relaxed and confident when I use alcohol or other drugs T F
14. I don’t like myself the day after I‘ve used alcohol or other drugs T F
15. I worry about my use of alcohol or other drugs T F
The more questions your answered as true, the greater your risks. It’s best to deal with minor problems now—before they become major ones.
Alcohol and other drug problems can be overcome
There are many qualified caring people ready and able to help you get off alcohol and other drugs
They can also help you:
Learning how to handle problems in positive ways
Develop better relationships with your parents, teachers, and friends
Take responsibility for your life
Feel good about yourself—and your future
Asking for help is the first step towards a happier and healthier life
Taking that first step may seem difficult, so keep in mind that:
You’re not a bad person because you have a problem. Seeking help means that you’re ready to face your problems and deal with them.
Asking for help is a sign of strength. It’s not weakness. It’s the only way to free yourself from alcohol and other drugs—and regain control of your life.
The consequences of not getting help can be tragic—but the sooner you seek help, the better off you’ll be.
Getting help is one of the best things you’ll ever do for yourself. Don’t kid yourself—quitting is hard work, but the reward is a better life for yourself.
Many sources of help are available
National Institute of Drug Abuse Hotline (800-662-HELP)
Alcohol/Drug Treatment Centers
Mental Health Centers
Alcoholics Anonymous
School Personnel
Hospitals and Health Clinics
Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors
