The cycle of addiction can be so luring that a person can continue to deny there’s a problem for months, years, even decades. The high of using drugs or drinking can continue to create the illusion that all is fine. And for some people, despite the fact that everything is falling apart around them, the high of drugs and drinking is precisely what keeps them going. But sometimes, hitting rock bottom becomes the breaking point. It’s reaching the very bottom of life where everything – family, friends, career, and finances – have been lost to the addiction. When there’s nothing left to save except oneself, that’s when someone might turn around and finally admit that they need help.
Rock bottom could be described as the point in life where someone has lost everything. It’s a time when someone recognizes that they must do something in order to change. It’s often a wake up call, a moment of self-recognition or awareness.
Getting Treatment Before Rock Bottom
However, it’s possible that a person does not need to hit this point in life. It tends to be the case because of the nature of addiction and the presence of denial. Yet, with the right support, the right amount of education, and enough people who care, it’s possible that a person does not need to hit rock bottom before getting addiction treatment.
In fact, there is so much information on addiction available on the Internet now that it’s possible for an addict to come across a site or two about the nature of addiction. When a person reads a list of symptoms of addiction, discovers that addiction is an illness and not a personal flaw, or finds out that it has a genetic component, he or she may be willing to admit that there’s a problem and get addiction treatment.
At the very least, a person who suspects they might be a problem with drugs or alcohol can talk to someone they trust. This might be a relative, friend, or colleague. Simply talking about it can help bring a sense of relief. In fact, once a person works up the courage to talk to someone about it, even if that person is not a mental health professional, the discussion often opens the door to the next step in feeling better. That might mean more discussions with a friend or seeking professional assistance.
Seeking Help
Hitting rock bottom is often so wrought with self-pity and shame that it’s a hard place to land. In fact, sometimes a person may have to hit rock bottom more than once before they decide that it’s time to get help. However, if a person has the capacity to examine their life for the things they’d like to save (their children, marriage, career), then it’s possible those facets of life might serve as a motivation for change. Yet, if someone hasn’t hit rock bottom, it might be harder for him or her to find the willingness to seek help.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction, contact a mental health professional today.