How to Ask for Help for an Addiction

Asking for help is one of the hardest things that you will ever do. Asking for help with a drug addiction involves not only admitting that you are an addict, it is telling someone else about it. It is unfortunate that asking for help is so difficult. Fortunately, you can make it easier on yourself by knowing who to ask, when to ask, and how to ask.

Who You Can Ask for Help

Although you probably could ask anyone for drug addiction help, it might not be wise to do so. One of the easiest ways to ask for help is just to call us at 800-256-3490. We can find you the help that you need. You can also ask:

• Family
• Close friends
• Your doctor
• The nearest hospital
• A local community center
  

  Seek help from someone you trust, and who you know won’t judge or condemn you.

Who you ask just depends on who you feel the most comfortable asking. Some people find it easier to ask someone that they do not know and others feel more comfortable asking someone close to them like family. The important thing is that you ask someone who will help you find the assistance you need rather than someone who will judge or condemn you.

When to Ask for Help

When you ask for help is a bit more complex. It depends on who you are asking. If you are asking us, we can offer help 24 hours a day. If you are asking your family or friends, it is important to find the correct time and place to ask. Some suggestions are:

• Find a time that the person you are asking is not stressed or busy. You should seek them out when they are calm and not attending to some other task.
• Sit them down once you find a time. Make sure they are ready to listen to your request. If they are not it might be difficult to get the point that you need help across.
• Make sure to set aside a specific time. Using a specific time is better because you know you have their attention and they know you are serious about talking.

Once you find a good time, be calm and tell them that you are an addict and that you need help.

How to Ask for Treatment Help

How to Ask for Help

How you ask for help depends on you. Sometimes simply blurting out that you are addicted to a drug and you need treatment is not the best approach. Again, it depends on who you are asking. Family might not react well to bluntness. Be prepared for anger if they did not know that you are an addict, and other reactions if they did or suspected.

It is almost always easier to ask a community organization or someone you do not know personally for the help that you need, but these organizations do not know you as well as your friends and family do. You might not get the comfort and support you need from a community agency.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are many treatment options available. Despite the difficulty in asking for help, help is always available. To take advantage of these treatment options all you have to do is call 800-256-3490.