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ALCOHOL AND DRUG PROBLEMS

Her drinking/pill popping is affecting my chances of a promotion.

Dad’s too sick to go to work again. What's going to happen if he loses his job?

If only he/she would drink like other people.

I don’t dare accept invitations from friends anymore.

Comments like these reflect the tension, confusion, shame, and anxiety that a family feels when one member has an alcohol or other drug problem.

Alcoholism and other drug dependencies are illnesses characterized by loss of control over the alcohol or drug. The drinking patterns of an estimated nine million American interfere with their daily lives. These people are not morally weak; rather, they are the victims of a progressive illness. At times they are as powerless over their drinking as a diabetic is over his reaction to sugar. This is just as true for those who abuse tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and an array of other mood-altering substance.

Substance dependence is a family illness. It is virtually impossible to live with the problems associated with the illness without becoming emotionally affected. Family members need as much assistance and support as the person with the illness.

When is a problem serious enough to require outside help?

It's always better to work on problems before they become critical. If you take care of things now, you might save yourself and your family a great deal of difficulty. Chronic substance abuse is often a sign of substance dependence which is a progressive illness. When left untreated it grows and almost always becomes not just serious, but a critical threat to life, health, and happiness. That's why a professional assessment for substance dependence is the best way to allay your doubts.

What can be done about substance abuse and dependence?

Patterns of substance abuse can be changed. Substance dependence is an illness that is treatable, even though it is almost impossible - especially for those closest to the dependent person - to help directly. With an understanding of the illness and its impact on your lives as family members, you can take steps to help yourselves and thus indirectly benefit the addict. Even one family member seeking help is better than no one seeking help. Consider using your assistance program, local crisis line, mental health center, or community resource center. Professional, confidential counseling is available!

How can a professional counselor help?

A professional counselor can make a difference. He/she can
• Administer, or refer you for, a professional assessment for substance dependence
• Help you gain perspective on your problems
• Guide you and your family to an understanding of these problems and their effect on each family member
• Facilitate activities that help you begin to solve the problem
• Put you in touch with self-help groups, such as Alcoholic Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Al-Anon. These groups are composed of people who share a common problem and gather together to give each other help and support.

How do I know if I need professional help?

If you or someone close to you has a personal problem that consistently affects more than one area of your life, it may be time to get professional help. If you or someone close continues to abuse alcohol or other drugs despite harmful consequences, it may be time to get assessed for substance dependence.

For guidance through this difficult time, contact your EAP, local crisis line, mental health center or community resource center or:

Alcoholics Anonymous
http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org

Remember your Employee Assistance Program is:
• Confidential: All information is kept strictly between you and your counselor
• Informal: A simple phone call starts the process and there’s no red tape.

For assistance call Hidalgo Health Associates at:
800-448-4470