It’s not uncommon for people to reach for drugs and alcohol in an effort to numb difficult emotions or cope with challenging situations. However, if you find yourself increasingly relying on substance use to make it through the day, you may have developed a substance use disorder. Here, we share some common signs that can indicate addiction treatment might be necessary.

1. You Rationalize Your Use of Drugs and Alcohol

Do you tell yourself that it’s okay to drink or use drugs when things get tough because “everybody does it” or because it helps you relax? While it might seem harmless at first, this type of rationalizing can easily become risky. For example, if you start drinking heavily during the week to cope with job-related stress, your performance might suffer or you might miss work because you’re too hungover. This could lead you to lose your job altogether, which will only increase your overall stress level.

2. Everyday Struggles Make You Want to Turn to Drugs or Alcohol

Substance use is not a one-size-fits-all solution to life’s issues, yet people often turn to drugs or alcohol no matter what the situation may be. If you find yourself reaching for substances regardless of the emotional or physical triggers, it could be an indication that your relationship with substance use has crossed the line from recreational to problematic. Learning healthy ways to cope with stress, grief, boredom, and other negative emotions is essential for lasting sobriety.

3. Your Relationships and Responsibilities Are Suffering

If your relationships with family and friends have become strained due to your substance use, then this can be another sign that you are using drugs and alcohol as an unhealthy coping mechanism. The same goes if you’re failing to meet your responsibilities at home, work, or school due to substance use.

4. You Are Emotionally Dependent on Substances

When you find yourself needing substances in order to feel “normal” or as a means of self-medication, this is an indication that your relationship with drugs and alcohol has become emotionally dependent. This type of behavior can be very dangerous and lead to more severe problems down the road. For example, someone who uses drugs and alcohol to self-medicate the symptoms of depression may find over time that substance abuse increases thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

5. You Have Difficulty Controlling Your Use of Substances

If you are unable to cut back on your substance use despite promising yourself or others that you would, this could be a sign that your relationship with drugs or alcohol deserves a closer look. If you experience withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, or muscle pain when you’re unable to use, this is a sign that your body has become physically dependent on the substance.

6. Your Use of Drugs and Alcohol Is Becoming More Frequent

Do you find yourself drinking more or using drugs on a daily basis? If so, this could indicate that you are relying on them as a coping mechanism. When you turn to drugs or alcohol more frequently in order to deal with life’s difficulties, it can quickly become problematic. A tolerance can quickly develop, which means you’ll need to keep using more of the substance in order to achieve the same effects.

7. Your Physical Health Is Suffering

If your physical health has been impacted by your substance use, then this could be another indication that your drug or alcohol use has become a serious problem. Long-term drug and alcohol use can lead to serious health complications such as liver damage, respiratory issues, and heart problems.

8. You Feel Guilty After Using Substances

If you feel guilty after drinking or using drugs, then this could be another indication that your relationship with substances has become unhealthy. We often have feelings of guilt when we know deep down that our substance use is not helping us but rather enabling us to avoid dealing with hard truths or difficult emotions.

How St. Joseph Institute for Addiction Can Help

The best way to address substance use issues is to seek professional help. Substance use disorders are considered chronic illnesses, but treatment can help you manage your condition and live a wellness-focused lifestyle. If you believe you have an unhealthy relationship with drugs and alcohol, don’t hesitate to reach out for help today.

Inpatient treatment at St. Joseph Institute for Addiction’s Pennsylvania residential treatment addiction treatment center can help you safely detox and begin the process of finding lasting sobriety. Experienced professionals can provide evidence-based therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and group counseling, which can help you develop valuable coping skills for managing your emotional health without relying on drugs or alcohol. Contact us today to learn more about how our experienced treatment team can provide the support and guidance you need to build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.

Looking for addiction treatment near Altoona, PA? To learn more about SJI Pennsylvania addiction rehab, and our programs, please contact us at (814) 228-8881.