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Help for People Who Drink Alcohol & Use Drugs & Tobacco

Addiction to tobacco, alcohol or drugs can be a painful experience for the addict as well as those around him or her. All three substances are silent killers. Cancer, liver failure, heart disease, HIV/AIDS and death by overdose are all real risks associated with addiction to tobacco, alcohol and drugs. Getting help as soon as possible is key when trying to overcome an addiction.

  1. Beating Tobacco Addiction

    • Nicotine is a highly addictive substance in cigarettes that makes it hard for long-time smokers to quit. There are a number of options for getting help to overcome an addiction to tobacco. Quitting with the help of nicotine patches or gum is one option. Avoiding situations in which you normally crave cigarettes can make a big difference as well. This could mean drinking less at bars and parties or changing to tea rather than coffee and cigarettes in the morning. Quitting with a friend or loved one also works well since the two of you can provide support for one another. Many organizations are dedicated to helping people quit smoking. Check out smokefree.gov or call 1-800-QUITNOW to talk to counselors or get more educational material on quitting tobacco.

    Beating Alcohol Addiction

    • Alcoholism is another tough addiction to get over. Avoid situations where the alcoholic is tempted to drink, such as parties, bars and dinner events with alcohol. Try talking to a counselor about alcohol dependence. Support groups can also provide comfort and structure for recovering alcoholics. Alcoholics Anonymous is known for its 12-step program for overcoming addiction. Visit alcoholics-anonymous.org or contact Alcoholics Anonymous by telephone at 212-870-3400 for more information.

    Beating Drug Addiction

    • Drug addiction can be difficult to overcome. Substances such as crack, heroin and cocaine are highly addictive after just one or two doses. Painful withdrawal symptoms often accompany any attempt at recovery. Nausea, itching, delirium and cold sweats make it nearly impossible for an addict to resist the urge to relapse, if he or she is not under close supervision. Inpatient programs at hospitals or clinics are usually the best option for recovering drug addicts to get clean. It can be challenging to stay drug-free even after the initial detox process is complete. Recovering addicts should attend self-help groups such as Narcotics Anonymous for support and guidance during the month safter their initial detox program. Check out na.org or call 818-773-9999 to find out more about Narcotics Anonymous.

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