TeenHealthFX - Answers - Major Drug & Alcohol Problem

Using Multiple Drugs & Comparing Drugs / Question
Published: September 24, 2002

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I am 22 and have a major drug and alcohol problem, what can I do? I have been using drugs since I was 11 and have been drinking since I turned 21. I really want to stop but I've tried and it's too hard, HELP ME!!!!!!

Signed: Major Drug & Alcohol Problem

Dear Major Drug & Alcohol Problem,

TeenHealthFX is very happy that you wrote. Recovering from an addiction can be a difficult process, and it is important that you do not try to do it alone. Making the personal decision to quit is a key first step, and your letter indicates that you are ready to do so.

The actual definition of "addiction" is constantly being debated. Some people view addiction as a pattern of behavior and experience while others see it as a progressive disease, not unlike diabetes or heart problems. Regardless, most people agree that treatment for addiction involves establishing a network of support, examining one's relationship with the world, and then determining ways to live without drugs and alcohol.

You did not tell FX how often you are using drugs or alcohol, but if you take them quite frequently, then you will most likely experience withdrawal symptoms as you begin to stop. It is important that you see a doctor to help you deal with these side effects. He or she will also be able to work with you in determining an appropriate course of treatment. One of the most important things for you to realize is that this is not something that you can recover from on your own, for both physical and emotional reasons. You will need help from other people, especially doctors and therapists, and there are many of them out there that are willing to do so. You simply need to reach out and take the first step.

Many treatment plans will have you join Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. In these groups, other people who share similar addictions and experiences with you provide support and advice - this tends to be helpful because they have been there before and know how hard it is to make the initial decision to quit and then to stick with it. These groups stress the fact that recovery does not stop with just being clean. Without drugs or alcohol, you will probably come face-to-face with feelings that you have never coped with successfully before. And, by having the support of others who have had to deal with this conflict, it is a little easier to get through without using drugs or alcohol.

If you live in northern New Jersey and would like finding a treatment program you can call the Access Center from Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888.247.1400, to set up an appointment.

Using drugs and alcohol can be a sign of other problems, and therefore, if you feel that you are in danger of hurting yourself, or you feel like your life has become too difficult to handle, please seek immediate assistance. If you live in Northern New Jersey, call the 24-hour CRISIS HOTLINE at (973)-540-0100. If you live outside Northern New Jersey, call the Suicide & Crisis Hotline at 1.800.999.9999, 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Signed: TeenHealthFX