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There’s a commonly held belief that hitting “rock bottom” is necessary for recovery from substance abuse. Addiction doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process that takes a while before spiraling out of control. In the early stages of problematic use of drugs or alcohol, effective intervention treatment can help prevent a substance use disorder (SUD) from causing lasting damage to your life.
Early Warning Signs of Substance Abuse
Abuse of substances such as alcohol, nicotine, prescription medications, and illicit drugs is a growing health concern in America. As recently as 2023, 59% of people aged 12 and above reported current use of addictive substances, while 17.1% admitted to having developed an SUD. While the majority of those struggling with alcohol use report having a mild disorder, only a fraction of respondents considered getting professional help.
Substance abuse often starts subtly. It may begin as youthful experimentation with vaping nicotine and drinking or as self-medicating to cope with life’s pressures. Addiction isn’t a linear process, and your use doesn’t need to cause legal and social troubles to be problematic.
Some drugs, such as opioids, create a strong physical dependency early on, even when used as prescribed. While dangerous, alcohol is legal, normalized, and associated with relaxation and fun. Indulging in a drink or two on special occasions can become a nightly habit to help with sleep or alleviate stress.
One early indicator is the need for more of the substance to achieve the same effect, which can increase the frequency of use. Your nightly glass of wine can quickly turn into a bottle, and you may become used to constantly feeling mildly hungover as you go through your daily routine.
When an individual is still functioning while drinking or using, they may find it easy to dismiss certain changes, such as increased irritability and unexplained fatigue. Inappropriate behavior at work functions or family events, such as drinking to the point of intoxication, can be overlooked or excused as a one-off.
You may start to miss deadlines. The quality of your work may drop. You may feel detached from your loved ones while making excuses to spend less time with them. You may even call in sick more often than before. As these changes happen gradually, you’re likely downplaying the extent of your problem.
Benefits of Early Intervention Treatment for Recovery
Getting help early for your substance abuse can help you stop using before it becomes an addiction. There’s no need to wait until you hit the proverbial “rock bottom.” Waiting for substance use to reach a specific low point, such as getting into legal trouble or losing employment, is counterintuitive. The sooner you address problematic use of drugs and alcohol, the easier it is to recover.
Other benefits of getting help sooner rather than later may include:
- Lowered health risks. Early intervention may prevent the progression of physical health issues associated with prolonged substance use.
- Improved mental health. Early treatment can mitigate the onset of mental health conditions often triggered or worsened by substance abuse.
- Higher success rates. Due to less severe dependency, people who start treatment sooner are more likely to succeed in recovery.
- Less invasive treatment. In some cases, early intervention can be delivered at a primary care level by your family doctor. Recovery in the early stages of SUD may not involve uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms or inpatient rehabilitation.
Early Intervention Sources
If you’re worried your or a loved one’s use of illicit substances or alcohol may be turning into an addiction, the first step is looking into nearby resources. The type of available support can range from professional treatment centers to local community resources.
Family and Friends
Your friends and close family members can be a source of understanding. As they know you best, your loved ones may be the first to notice behavior changes and encourage you to seek help.
Some individuals find it helpful to discuss their struggles with their families to stay accountable. When those closest to you actively participate in the process, they help create a supportive recovery environment.
Drug Abuse Intervention Options
When you’re questioning whether you’re starting to develop an SUD, it can be hard to know where to turn. Your primary care doctor is usually an excellent place to ask for help. Physicians can discuss your use or drinking patterns and suggest an appropriate plan. The type of intervention you need depends on the substance used and the gravity of your dependency. Your doctor may prescribe medication or encourage you to go to a treatment facility.
Additionally, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides information hotlines and crisis intervention services that offer immediate guidance on starting treatment.
Mental Health Counseling
One-on-one therapy can significantly improve your chances of recovery. Evidence-based techniques, such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy, can be beneficial in treating addiction. During sessions, your therapist may want to explore your drug use, identify triggers, and help you develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Support Groups
Peer support groups, such as 12-step programs, bring together individuals who understand the struggle of substance abuse. Members find understanding in a judgment-free zone where they can bond over shared experiences. These groups are a great source of accountability, and attending regular meetings creates a consistent support network, improving your chances of remaining committed to long-term recovery.
Proactive Steps Toward Recovery
Actively working on your recovery and knowing the importance of prevention and early intervention can mean the difference between long-term sobriety and relapse. Recognizing the signs of an SUD and seeking outside support are essential first steps.
You may want to start setting short- and long-term goals for your recovery. Don’t be afraid to lean on your support system. Recovery is ongoing, so continued engagement in support groups or therapy reinforces progress.
Addiction Treatment You Can Rely On
Regardless of the substance you’ve been abusing, it takes a lot of courage to admit it may be time to stop. Contact FHE Health today. Our compassionate counselors are here 24-7 and ready to support every step of your recovery.
