Addiction is a disorder that affects millions of people around the world. No matter your race, gender, orientation, or age, it can upend your life and turn you into someone even you don’t recognize.
But there is help. As the National Institute on Drug Abuse points out, addiction is a curable disorder.
However, things will only get better if you’re ready to change. Think you’re ready to get clean and beat addiction?
Here are five signs it’s time to figure out how to get sober.
1. You’re Tired of the Vicious Cycle of Drug Abuse
Drug abuse is indeed a spiral. And one that can consume you if you’re not careful.
It starts before you know it. You take your substance of choice, get high, and you feel on top of the world.
But then, after a while, you start to notice a change. You have to indulge in a substance more often, or in higher doses.
Before you know it, your life is consumed.
At night, you lie awake thinking, ‘When will I get sober? How did I get here?’
Suffice to say, this isn’t a point anyone hopes to reach. But if there’s one positive of the situation, it’s that you’re finally ready to seek help.
2. Your Health Is Deteriorating
Drug abuse has some very real physical effects. Take alcohol, for instance.
Those addicted to alcohol are likely to experience a wide range of symptoms including:
- Inflammation of the liver.
- Frequent blackouts.
- Numbness of the feet and hands.
- Difficulty with vision.
Those who indulge in drugs are also far more likely to succumb to diabetes or cancer.
If you’re a frequent user and notice aches and pains that weren’t there before, don’t ignore them. They’re your body’s way of telling you that it’s time to get sober.
3. You Can’t Function at Work
Since substances affect motor functions, you may find it more difficult to perform your job while under the influence.
You may even sneak substances into the office so you can use while on the clock.
Not only is this a fireable offense in some cases, but you could also be putting yourself and others in danger if your job requires the operation of heavy machinery or a car.
4. You Feel Isolated
Substance abuse disorders can take you away from the people you love most. Before you know it, you’re no longer going out with friends or visiting family, instead opting to spend the evening abusing substances.
It’s a lonely life, to say the least.
But getting sober can help you get your life back on track. If you’re tired of the loneliness and isolation, it may be time to reach out for help.
5. You’ve Started Researching Treatment Centers
In truth, not all signs that it’s time to get sober are bad.
If you’re already researching an addiction treatment center like Seacrest Recovery Center, it shows that you’re at least aware of the problem.
How to Get Sober: Time to Make a Change
Now that you know the signs, it’s time to take action. Stop wondering how to get sober and start your journey to a better life.
Whether you ask friends and family for help or check yourself into rehab, please know that you have the power to overcome addiction.
If you think you know someone suffering from a substance abuse disorder, learn more by reading our article on signs of addiction.
