Do I Need Treatment?

Do I need treatment? If you are asking this question about you or someone you know, chances are you have seen some warning signs. It is important to note that no one can really answer this question except the addict themself. Denial is a huge first step to overcome so that the addict wants to seek help. Often when we think of denial we are wondering whether the addict even realizes there is a problem. An addict usually in fact recognizes this, and actually the denial is the addict's internal struggle about whether or not they can figure out how to manage the addiction. They may try to make some changes so that they can still use but not let it get out of control. So efforts at intervention on the part of friends and family are often ineffective unless the addict admits that they need help. Clinical experience and treatment outcome studies strongly suggest that natural consequences are a fundamental precursor to overcoming denial. Often the addict must be given an opportunity to face, feel, or experience the consequences of their addiction before the denial of their illness can be penetrated and motivation for recovery can be internally grasped. This is often difficult for friends and family to hear. Continued use of alcohol or drugs is an unhealthy and dangerous state for the addict and for those who are affected by their illness. But do not lose heart. Interventions can be more effective if they are done from a place of compassion and with the facts clearly presented. It may prompt the addict to consider the question more deeply and discover for themselves if they need help.

In any case, the best thing to do before committing to treatment is to make sure you or the addicted person is willing to go. A person can't be forced into treatment if they will not admit they need help. Although it is not always feasible to wait, if the person is willing to go they are likelier to invest themselves in their recovery. Many people do not feel ready to leave their addiction behind, but that is normal. It can be done, and recovery is possible. The best time to start is now.

Although a formal assessment from a trained professional will provide a clearer picture of an addiction's severity and recommended treatment options, there are several online assessments that are freely available. If you suspect that you may have an addiction, it's important that you seek out a professional evaluation from a physician or therapist who can diagnose you.