Self Help for Addiction – Control Your Habits

Many people find it difficult to control their habits and experience negative consequences because of them. If you’re unsure whether or not you have an addiction or impulse control disorder, there are some warning signs that may indicate you have a problem that should be addressed.

If you are reading this page, then it is likely that you are concerned for yourself and should investigate whether or not some form of treatment for addiction might be necessary. It is important to understand that you are not alone.

If you need advice, we can help you find the right treatment and offer resources and information to help you begin the path to recovery.

Do You Abuse Drugs or Alcohol?

If you agree with any of these statements, you may have a problem with drugs or alcohol. If you agree with most or all of these statements, then you will likely meet the criteria for a diagnosis of drug or alcohol dependence disorder.

• Your use has increased over time. You started using occasionally and now use frequently
• You find that the same amount of drugs or alcohol no longer gives you the same effect
• You find it difficult to cut down or stop using completely
• Other people in your life have noticed changes in your behaviour or emotions
• You feel sad, angry or confused after drinking or using drugs
• You feel mad at yourself for not being able to control your use
• Your family and friends are no longer a high priority
• You use drugs and/or alcohol to escape from negative feelings

Decide to make a change and confront your addiction

For most people, the most difficult step to recovery is the first one – deciding to make a change to your life!

Change is not always easy but to overcome addiction it is a necessary step to recovery that can initially involve making changes to:

• how you handle stress
• who you let into your life
• what you decide to do in your spare time
• what you think and feel about yourself
• how you interact with those around you

Don’t delay the decision to change

If you are unsure whether you’re ready to change your behaviours, or you are frightened to take the first step, you should consider the long-term consequences of not addressing addiction.

Recovery is a process that requires commitment, time, support and motivation. The following tips can help you as you contemplate making changes:

Keep a record of your addictive behaviours – this will make you more conscious of how your addiction is affecting you and the extent to which it has a hold on your life.

Assess the pros and cons of stopping your addictive ways – is addiction really helping you in any way! You might see some small benefits in your mind but is your life really any better?

Consider what is important to you – your friends, family, health etc – how does your addiction affect these? Is your addictive behaviour hurting the most important things in your life?

What do others think? – Ask someone you trust how they feel about your actions. If you get an honest answer you will probably discover that people close to you are hurt by what you do!

What is preventing you from taking steps to make changes – ask yourself what could motivate you to change. What is stopping you from making change that deep down you know need to happen sooner rather than later.

Choose the Best Addiction Treatment Plan

With a number of treatment options available including counselling, intensive inpatient rehab, and less intensive outpatient care, finding a treatment centre for your addiction can be a daunting process. It is our job to help you find the right care and make the whole process as easy as possible.

We only work with reputable treatment centres and clinics that offer an excellent level of service and care. We will help you find the best place that fits your needs and also help you arrange payment and find transportation.

Addiction Friend can provide you with up-to-date information and even direct you to local self-help groups if you are unable to fund a stay in a rehabilitation programme.

Want to talk to an adviser?

Tell us when to call and an addiction specialist will be in touch.