Sometimes, the pressures of daily life can feel overwhelming, leaving us with more problems than solutions. In these moments, turning to drugs or alcohol might seem like a temporary escape. However, this might only delay addressing the root of the issue. This is known as self-medicating.
What does this entail? Instead of getting medical advice or focusing on their well-being, people turn to drugs or alcohol to ease physical, mental, or emotional symptoms or a combination of all three.
If you are self-medicating with drugs or alcohol, know that an addiction treatment program can help. Through detox and rehabilitation, you can build a foundation for lasting recovery. Reach out to Woodland Recovery Center today, and we can help with self-medicating and addressing the root of the issue without relying on harmful substances.
What Is Self-Medicating?
Just as addiction and recovery vary for each individual, the reasons for self-medication differ from person to person. However, there are some common reasons for self-medicating, and looking for situations that match is a good way to check if you or someone you know is self-medicating.
- Have you recently experienced a major life change, such as a divorce, job loss, or the death of a loved one? These types of changes can be difficult to cope with.
- Do you experience a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression?
- Are there certain feelings that trigger the need for self-medicating? Feelings like sadness or anger that seem to come from nowhere?
- Do your worries or problems seem to get worse when you drink or use drugs?
There are many reasons someone may turn to self-medication rather than seeking treatment. It also may be hard to recognize that something needs to be diagnosed, particularly because of one common factor.
Self-Medicating to Deal with Stress
Stress is often a major trigger for self-medicating. However, it may not be easy to see at first because most people experience some stress daily. When stress becomes unmanageable, it can lead to issues like self-medication.
Self-medicating for stress can exacerbate your stress levels and turn drinking into a more significant issue. However, what if the root cause is beyond just stress? If you resort to alcohol or drugs to cope with overwhelming sadness, these may be symptoms of depression.
Depression can lead to a major sense of helplessness in your life. It’s important to remember depression isn’t as simple as feeling a little sad. There are multiple types of depression, all needing official medical diagnoses to treat them best.
For individuals experiencing depression, diagnosed or not, there can be a tendency to self-medicate in search of the fleeting happiness often linked to the initial effects of alcohol. When substances beyond alcohol are introduced, the outcomes shift slightly, yet all share a common thread: they exacerbate depression. The key difference lies in how the body is affected.
Has Self-Medication Evolved Into Addiction?
Perhaps you or someone you know turned to alcohol or drugs to cope with stress, trauma, depression, or a mix of these challenges. This cycle of responding to negative thoughts or emotions through self-medication can cause the body to depend on these habits, eventually seeking the substance at the onset of stress or sadness.
Struggling to maintain daily routines and failing to accomplish basic necessities, like grocery shopping or basic hygiene, may be signs of addiction. Constantly anticipating the next opportunity to drink or use drugs could signal that self-medication has evolved into an addiction. If the time you spend self-medicating surpasses the time you don’t, it may be beneficial to consult a licensed physician or psychotherapist.
How to Stop Self-Medicating?
Stopping self-medication requires a multifaceted approach emphasizing self-awareness, support, and professional help. Education about the risks associated with using substances to cope can be vital in shifting perceptions.
Here are some practical steps to consider in this journey:
- Acknowledge the issue – Recognize and accept that self-medicating impacts your life.
- Seek professional help – Consult with a healthcare provider or mental health professional to discuss your struggles and explore treatment options.
- Develop healthy coping mechanisms – To manage stress and emotions, engage in activities that promote well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or journaling.
- Build a support network – Surround yourself with supportive friends and family, or consider joining a support group for shared experiences.
- Set realistic goals – Create achievable objectives for reducing or eliminating substance use and track your progress.
Taking these steps can significantly help break the cycle of self-medication and lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Call Woodland Recovery Center and Discover How We Can Help with Self-Medicating Behaviors
Woodland Recovery Center specializes in treating co-occurring conditions, providing comprehensive care for both substance use and any accompanying mental or emotional concerns. As mentioned, self-medication often stems from underlying issues. We believe in your potential to transform your life and navigate challenging times. We invite you to reach out and discuss how we can help you. If you or someone you know needs support, please call us at 662.222.2989 or contact us online.
