“Do I need drug rehab?” is not an easy question to ask yourself. If you are in the middle of an addiction to drugs or alcohol (or any addictive behavior), it is difficult to be able to step back and objectively evaluate the situation. And each person struggles with drugs or alcohol in his or her own way, so there is no clear cut answer. But here are some warning signs or questions you can ask yourself to see if you need drug rehab:
- Many people exhibit the classic signs or symptoms of substance abuse, but have difficulty realizing that they have a problem. Have you had family or friends express their concern, mention you might have a problem, or suggest you seek help?
- Have you found your work or school performance suffering as a result of drugs or alcohol?
- Do you engage in binge-drinking episodes throughout the week?
- Do you use drugs or alcohol alone or at socially unacceptable times (work, morning, etc.)?
- Would you rather drink or use drugs than spend time with family or friends?
- Do you engage in high-risk behavior while under the influence of drugs or alcohol?
- Has your use of drugs or alcohol resulted in the loss of your job, relationships or money?
- Do you have increasing health problems (such as those caused by drug interactions)?
- When you stop using drugs or alcohol, do you experience withdrawal symptoms (Can include: nausea and vomiting, headaches, mood swings, blurred vision, insomnia, shaking and tremors, anxiety and depression, irritability, diarrhea, increased heart rate and blood pressure)?
Here are some more questions from The American Psychological Association Addiction Test:
- Has your tolerance increased (does it take more than it used to to feel the same high)?
- Do you ever take a different drug to eliminate feelings of withdrawal?
- Do you ever use more of a substance than you meant to?
- Have you ever tried to quit or cut down, and found that you were unable to?
- Do you spend much of your time thinking about drugs or alcohol, using or recovering from drugs or alcohol?
- Have you stopped doing things you used to enjoy, because of your alcohol or drug use?
- Do you continue to use alcohol or drugs even after you notice the negative consequences of your use?
If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, there is a strong possibility that you need drug rehab. It’s best to seek the help of a professional, who can help you determine what course of action is best suited to your needs.
