Asking for help is hard. Many of us feel like we need to handle things on our own because we are ashamed of our behavior or scared of seeming powerless or out of control. It might seem easier to let things continue because we do not know how to address the problem.
How to Ask for Help
First, we have to accept that we have no longer control our behavior. Our illness has taken complete control. Everything rotates around getting that next drink or fix. We have to take an honest look at our lives and see things for what they are. There is a certain relief in seeing things clearly. We have been hiding behind our addiction for so long that simply acknowledging it sheds a light into what can be a very dark life.
Once we have accepted that we have a problem, we need to make a plan. We need to do something. This too is difficult. Because our illness is built on distrust and shame, reaching out might seem impossible. For some of us, it is easier to write than to sit down and talk. It gives us a little bit of a cushion. We don’t have to worry about being interrupted or trying to figure out if the person with whom we are talking is judging. So, we can send an email or write a letter. This could be to a treatment center or to someone we love. By putting it in writing, we cannot back out. Once the letter or email is sent, we have committed ourselves. There is some comfort in this. The deed is done. It’s out of our hands.
If there is no one in our life we trust with this kind of thing, there are many organizations online that help with this kind of thing. Hotlines and government agencies often have professionals trained in working people living with addiction find the right kind of help, be it inpatient treatment or community-based programs. Sometimes talking to a stranger is easier, especially if they are a professional knowledgeable in the field. They do not have the depth of emotional investment that a family member or friend and can offer more a more objective perspective.
Accepting Help
Simply asking for help, however, we do it, shows that we are courageous. It shows that we are willing to look at our lives and honestly work toward bettering it. At Fort Worth Recovery, we know the strength it takes to reach out and we are here to help you take the next step. We believe that people are redeemable and we are waiting for you to call. Call today at 817 382 2894 or visit us online.
