If you live with an Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), you are far from alone. It is estimated that almost 30 million Americans are in this situation. Moreover, a larger percentage are high functioning alcoholics or people who can stay sober for a short while before falling into a binge.
Like any illness, alcoholism needs to be treated in the correct way. Like any illness, though, it’s crucial that you treat it in the most effective way. Before seeking support, be sure to ask the following questions for guidance to make the road ahead much smoother.
Do I Truly Want To Get Sober?
First and foremost, you won’t beat your AUD unless you truly want it. While loved ones or employers could give you a nudge in the right direction, true motivation has to come from within. Even if the source of your desire comes from wanting to do better for your children or spouse.
Ultimately, problematic drinking affects your mental health as well as your physical wellness. When you truly acknowledge the damage, it should inspire you to want change. This is the first, and arguably most important, step on the road to recovery.
Moreover, it is a breakthrough that will leave you more open to actively embracing support.
Will It Impact My Work?
Seeking professional support for an AUD can transform your life for the better in many ways. Still, you must not ignore the potentially negative short-time impacts. The thought of taking time out of work is, for many people, the biggest stumbling block. Financially and logistically.
Eligible employees can use Family and Medical Leave Act benefits for up to 12 weeks of cover. Therefore, FMLA may remove the financial worries. However, you must approach employers with honesty and transparency. Most will support workers through this issue.
Knowing that you’ll still have a job immediately lifts a weight of stress from your shoulders.
Which Type Of Support Is Best For Me?
Professional support is always the best avenue to pursue for AUD recovery. Still, there are several options available, which is why you must choose the right one for you. Online and offline groups connect you to other sufferers, which can help many stay on the right path.
However, alcohol rehab centers are another option to consider. Some prefer inpatient solutions to get through the initial difficulties of withdrawal symptoms. In this instance, staying in a remote location can help too. Others opt for outpatient care to maintain daily habits.
The best option for you is the one that will help you get sober for life.
Do I Need Additional Help?
AUDs don’t typically surface without underlying reasons. While addressing the addiction directly is vital, you must not ignore outside issues. Counseling for mental health problems or past trauma builds a stronger platform for long-term success.
Additional support may also be needed for issues like managing debt or regaining control of your health. With the latter, you may wish to focus on getting guidance in fitness or nutrition. Finding a nutritionist or personal trainer can help you build a better life. From day one.
Increased positivity in life can only reduce the threat of relapsing.
Who Can I Trust With This Info?
Admitting that you have an addiction is tough, especially as a high-functioning alcoholic or binge drinker. Sharing this with others won’t be quite as difficult, but it is still a challenge. Still, it’s vital that you have a small support network of loved ones to lift you up in darker moments.
You probably don’t want everyone in your life to know about your addiction or treatment. So, it’s important to pick people you can trust to keep your sensitive info safe. You also need to feel secure in confiding in them if you have a wobble. It should be a no judgement zone.
With the right people by your side, things suddenly feel a lot brighter.
How Can I Help The Experts?
When turning to a professional for help with your addiction, it’s not a one-way interaction. In truth, the road ahead is far smoother when you are ready to help them help you. A willingness to cooperate and remain transparent should be the first item on your agenda.
You can provide further support by preparing any relevant info. A family history of addiction, your medical history, and insights into your triggers all help. When an expert can paint a clearer image of you, they can provide more personalized support. This can only aid your cause.
Work as a team, and you will get sober once more.
