What is the best path to get the help for addiction that you really need? Some people struggle for years with drug, alcohol, gambling, or even plastic surgery addiction without getting the help that they really need. What is required for this, and how can someone go about it?

* Find local treatment centers and call them on the phone. Talk with them and ask them what you can do to be admitted to their program. Ask them what it costs and how you might be able to pay for it. Ask them if their are grants or funding available if you cannot afford it. Look locally because this makes sense from a number of different levels, and it is generally cheaper too.

* Find 12 step meetings and go to them. If you are serious about getting help then summon up your courage to walk into a 12 step meeting. If it is not the perfect fit for your particular addiction, this is not a barrier to entry. Simply state that “you are addicted” and that you are there to get help. If you feel pressured you can always say that you are “just there to listen.” No one will force you to speak and almost everyone there will want to do whatever they can to help you.

* Find others who have conquered addiction and talk to them. They don’t necessarily have to be in a certain recovery program. Just find anyone who has overcome an addiction and pick their brain. It may be a friend, or a priest, or a family member. Whatever. Talk with them and ask them to share how they got clean and sober. What worked for them? How can that help you?

* Take action in terms of being positive about your life. Exercise. Meditate. Gather information. Find a way to help others, especially if you can help others in recovery.

Tags: ,