Reach Out For Help and Support
By Elizabeth Hartney, About.com Guide
Treatment / Support Groups
Support groups for people with addictions are freely available in most areas. Treatment programs are also often freely available, although there may be more involved in accessing services. Knowing whether support groups or a treatment program is right for you and your circumstances is a good first step to getting help.
- Do You Need Detox?
- Is Community-Based Rehab Right for You?
- Is Live-In Rehab Right for You?
- 12-Step Groups
- The SMART Recovery Self Help Program
Telephone Support
There are many hotlines tailored to specific addictions, such as alcohol, drugs and gambling. Calling a hotline can be a quick and easy way of getting support while you are thinking about making changes, experiencing difficulties, or waiting for a place in a treatment program. Some people like to use hotlines if they want to talk to someone who understands, but don't want to join a support group.
Helping a Loved One Beat an Addiction
It can be heartbreaking to see a family member or loved one struggle with an addiction. More and more treatment programs are offering support for family members, and research is showing that how family members respond to an addiction can profoundly affect the outcome. The situation may seem hopeless, but it isn't -- there are many ways you can help your loved one and yourself.
