How to Know When You Hit Rock Bottom

Many people go through difficult times in their lives. Sometimes the end result is hitting rock bottom. For some, hitting rock bottom is the wake-up call needed to begin steering life in a more positive direction. When you have hit rock bottom, there is nowhere to go but up. Recognizing some of the common signs is an important part of getting back on your feet.

Instructions

• 1

  Losing your job. Whether you are struggling with substance abuse or dealing with a financial crisis, losing your job can be a sure sign of hitting rock bottom. After all, the average person needs some sort of income to make ends meet. According to WorkingAmerica, 77 percent of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. Losing a job for many means losing access to the basics necessary for survival, which include food, clothing and shelter.

• 2

  Abandoned by friends and loved ones. If you are struggling with substance abuse, mental illness or some other crisis, you might eventually notice the people in your life pulling away. Friends and loved ones might have a difficult time watching someone they love self destruct; especially if it seems that you can make the choice to turn your own circumstances around.

• 3

  Having property repossessed. Having possessions you once worked hard to acquire, such as your car or home, taken away because you can't make payments can be a sobering reality check. You might even find yourself having to sell or pawn your things just to make ends meet.

• 4

  Experiencing stress and depression. The series of events that lead you to hit rock bottom can take a toll on your mental, emotional and physical health. It's not unusual to experience problems with insomnia, anxiety or depression as a result of the stress. These conditions can immobilize you and make it hard to carry out simple daily tasks, such as getting out of bed, eating or spending time around others.