We talked about mental health resources, and places to call when you need help.  Now let’s talk about resources if you have issues with drugs and/or alcohol.  Substance abuse issues are just as difficult as mental health issues.  If you have issues with substance abuse, find support and help if you are ready to get clean and sober.  Sometimes, getting clean and sober from drugs and alcohol can be incredibly difficult.  Depending on your addiction, it can also be incredibly dangerous to your health.  Withdrawal and related complications can put your health and your life at risk.  If you are ready to change your path, these are some of the resources that can help you on your journey.

1. Alcoholics Anonymous

Most people have heard about alcoholics anonymous (AA) to help get sober, and stay sober.  There are meetings in most communities that you can attend daily.  The meetings are what you make of them, and unfortunately, they can include people who are not focused on sobriety, so be careful.  The program is based on a 12 step program, with a spiritual component, that addresses your sobriety, but also other parts of your life as well.  You can click here to review the site and get information about meetings in your area.

2. Narcotics Anonymous

Like AA, narcotics anonymous (NA), has meetings to help people stay on track with sobriety.  The meetings are not as often, but most communities have meetings multiple times per week, to help people stay on track.  The program, like AA, is based on a 12 step program and has a spiritual component to it.  AA does as well, and can turn people off.  From what I’m told, the meetings can be a place to get drugs, but the hope is that it’s a safe place to talk about making life changes, for the better.  You can click here for more information from the website.

3. Inpatient Substance Abuse treatment

There are many inpatient programs around the country that can help with getting clean and sober.  The key to looking for inpatient is cost, coverage, and assistance.  If you have insurance coverage, there may be programs that work with your insurance to help with intensive help.  Inpatient settings are usually 1 to 4 weeks, but can vary based on your insurance and coverage.  To access information and options, talk to your local substance abuse resource or your insurance.  They can refer for further evaluation and support.

4. SAMHSA’s National Helpline

This is a substance abuse hotline, and can provide referrals for support and information.  It’s available 24/7, and is there with support and information for people struggling with substance abuse and their families.  They have information on referrals for local inpatient and outpatient programs to help with the issues that can be present with substance abuse.    One of the hardest things to do it to reach out for the first time, and they can help when you need help.  Click here for more information.

                If you have issues with drugs or alcohol, and your life isn’t heading in the direction you want to go, reach out and get help.  Protect your health, and if you have significant issues, don’t try to do it alone.  Others have been where you are and they know how hard it can be.  Reach out, and get help from people who understand.  It’s all part of being happy, for life.