The Problem
People generally want to believe that they are in control of their own life. But when you are dependent on drugs or alcohol, you are not in control. Excessive alcohol and drug use, including the misuse of some prescription drugs, can lead to serious mental and physical problems.
You also endanger those around you – family, friends, and even total strangers. Automobile crashes, violent behavior, and other destructive actions occur most frequently among those who use and abuse alcohol and drugs.
Your risk of heart disease, cancer, liver disease, brain damage, and many other conditions is increased by your alcohol- and drug-dependent behaviors.
Effects of Drugs and Alcohol
More than 120,000 Americans die each year as a direct result of abusing alcohol and drugs. Many more lives are forever changed because of the damage done to family relationships. Work time is missed, and friendships are forever lost.
It usually takes time for someone to become addicted to alcohol. That allows for plenty of time to get help, make lifestyle changes, and find other physical and emotional outlets. The bad news is that alcohol is easily available and relatively cheap.
Drug addiction can happen very rapidly; sometimes after only one or two uses. You can develop a dependency on some prescription drugs as well as on street or illegal drugs. While street drugs are more dangerous, all drug dependency puts your health at risk. Drugs are easily available.
Overcoming Dependencies
Alcohol and drug dependencies are usually very difficult to overcome. Not impossible – just difficult. There is a lot you can do to help yourself. You are worth the extreme effort needed to overcome your dependent behaviors.
- Get help from family, friends, and counselors.
- Attend 12-step group meetings.
- Make a personal commitment to overcome your dependency.
- Remove all alcohol/drugs from your home, car, office, and life.
- Become more physically active and improve your dietary choices.
- If you relapse (start again), get help to stop again.
- Get medical help when needed.
Making Changes
Be sure you are ready to make lifestyle changes. If you are not committed to making positive changes in your life, it probably won't work for you.
Acknowledge the health risks you are facing, and make a plan to reduce those risks by improving your diet, becoming more physically active, and developing positive relationships with those around you. Follow through with your choices and plans. Small improvements can lead to big results. Your life might depend on it. |
