Without the right support or treatment, getting sober can be very difficult or even life-threatening. So, before you decide to break an addiction on your own, consider the following risks and think about getting professional treatment at a rehab center.
For many people, January is a time for new changes and a fresh start. It’s an opportunity to reassess, create goals, and work towards a better you. If you want to step back and re-evaluate your relationship with alcohol, Dry January might be a great way to do it and start the year making healthier choices.
The holiday season can be very stressful for some people, especially those in recovery. Due to the impact of several different holiday triggers, this time of year can pose a risk for relapse, especially when people in recovery lack support.
For some people, occasional drug and alcohol abuse can escalate into full dependence, and then suddenly, nothing is more important than getting high or drunk. Although addicted individuals often make excuses for why they don’t need treatment, hitting rock bottom is often the end of the line and forces them to take action.
It’s not uncommon for people to use drugs to deal with stress, fear, or other complex emotions. But over time, this behavior can grow into addiction and cause serious physical and mental health problems.
Addiction, depression, and suicide are all very closely related. People who suffer from severe depression and other mental health issues often engage in risky behaviors or turn to drugs and alcohol to numb their negative feelings. However, chronic alcohol or drug abuse also produces toxic side effects, including mental health issues like anxiety and depression. As a person continues to use alcohol or drugs to cope with depression, they’re likely to experience depressive episodes more often, increasing feelings of hopelessness and despair.