How to Cope With Drug Abuse

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), drug abuse and addiction costs the American society more than half a trillion dollars yearly, with illicit drugs accounting for 181 billion dollars. As a drug abuser or loved one of an abuser, you have probably experienced conflict in your home, work, school and/or social life. Consequently, you may be forced to find ways of handling this issue. You may also find this to be a harrowing process, because coping with abuse is tough. Still, by finding ways to treat drug abuse, you can regain control of your life.

Instructions

Coping with Drug Abuse

• 1

  Often, people who abuse drugs have an underlying reason, such as depression or unpleasant childhood memories. Others simply gave in to peer pressure. Drug abusers may experience feelings of shame, guilt, and hopelessness.

• 2

  Drug abusers need to take responsibility for their actions. They have a tendency to feel that everyone else is the problem. This train of thought is self-defeating until the abuser realizes that he is responsible for his own behavior. Denial is self-destructive, which can cause some to continue to abuse drugs until it becomes an addiction.

• 3

  Talk to someone about your problem. This can be tough, particularly when an abuser is feeling remorseful about her habit. Understand that in order to cope with drug abuse, you need all the support you can summon. Talk to your most trusted (and sober) friend or family members; most likely, they will be relieved you approached them for help.

• 4

  Enlist the help of a physician or substance abuse treatment facility. Weaning off of drugs is a difficult task to tackle on your own; medical assistance may be required. Physicians can determine what medications or therapy may be best for you or your loved one. If you do not have a physician, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a comprehensive website with information on substance abuse. Further, they have a Facility Locator; enter your zip code to find a treatment center near you. Note that many of these facilities are publicly funded.

• 5

  Understand that coping with drug abuse is a journey and a "quick fix" is not realistic. Consider therapy in addition to your other treatments for drug addiction. It is especially useful, as it addresses the reason for your drug abuse and teaches you coping skills you can apply when obstacles arise.