What To Do if Alcohol or Drugs are Causing Problems
If you think your alcohol or drug use has become (or is becoming) a problem, there are a number of things you can do. First, recognize that you are not alone and that others are available and willing to lend help. Second, get help! Getting help is really important if you really want to successfully cut back or stop drinking or using. We encourage you to get help even if you are not sure that you would be able to quit or are feeling guilty about the problem. Asking for help and support takes a great deal of courage and strength, but it greatly increases your odds in beating this problem.
Who to Contact for Help
Here are some sources you can contact for help with substance issues.
- Call a health care provider (for example, primary care doctor)
- Contact a psychologist or therapist
- Contact your local VA hospital
- Contact your local Alcoholic's Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous
- Contact a local mental health association
- Talk with a spiritual counselor
- Ask friends or family member who are clean and sober
Here are some useful websites that give more information about alcohol and drug use and how to get help.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Information and Resources: http://www.alcoholanddrugabuse.com/blog/
Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator: https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/
Alcoholics Anonymous Homepage: https://www.aa.org/information-about-meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and the Armed Services: https://www.aa.org/aa-and-armed-services