How to Stop a Drug Addiction Before it Starts

Updated on September 30, 2020
Woman Crying

How to Stop a Drug Addiction Before it Starts

Drug abuse is a severe problem in many countries across the world. In the U.S., more than 21 million people aged 12 and over have a drug abuse problem. And since 1990, deaths as a result of drug overdose have more than tripled. 

Unfortunately, stopping drug addiction is incredibly difficult. Many drug users have had relapses and have had to return to rehab centers over and over again. That’s why people must notice and stop potential drug addiction before things blow up.

Manage Stress

Stress is one of the critical risk factors that can lead to drug addictions. If your mind and body are tired, you are more likely to look for a high. Drugs promise that high, but only for a short while. But, the drugs often stay in your system for longer. For instance, marijuana can be detected in your body for up to 120 days

While drugs, from heroin to prescription drugs, seem to provide an “escape route,” they only compound the problem. From work to finances, there are several potential stressors, and they differ from person to person. That’s why you should take note of any possible stressors and work to address them quickly. Some general tips for reducing stress include exercise, laughter, sleep, and yoga. 

Build Good Habits

At its core, drug addictions are habits. And more often than not, starting one bad habit can eventually lead to experimentation with other similarly bad habits. For instance, smoking and alcoholism can subsequently lead a person to dabble in drugs. 

One helpful way to ensure that you don’t end up with such habits is to have good routines. Spend your time learning new things and exploring new skills. For example, being involved in charity activities is a great way to give your life meaning and fulfillment. 

Know Your Family’s History

According to the American Psychological Association, more than half of a person’s vulnerability can be traced to genetic and epigenetic factors. Knowing your family’s history with addictions can give you a leg up on any possible addiction. It helps you see your addiction tendencies so that you can prepare to ward it off. Once you see signs and symptoms of behaviors that can foster drug abuse, you can get help in time. That brings us to our next point.

Seek Counseling or Therapy

Counselors and therapists are a mainstay of the substance addiction world. That’s because people need help when trying to avoid to stop addictions. Addictions are more than a physical reliance on substances; several physiological and social factors come to play. A licensed and trained counselor or therapist can help you identify and work through any elements that can trigger dependency on any substance. 

Know What’s Important to You

Beyond the effects of drug addiction on a person’s health, it often has a devastating impact on families. Dependencies can break homes, destroy marriages, and lead to bankruptcy. That’s why you should decide to stay away from drug addictions. Your family and children can be a motivating factor in helping you stop a budding drug addiction. Always remember that you are not alone: there are friends and family who want to see you whole and well. 

Final Words

Drug addiction rates in the U.S. are soaring, and families and friends are bearing the brunt. You don’t have to wait until the addiction worsens before seeking help. Make sure you handle depression and stress before it nurtures an addiction. Also, take note of any hereditary and environmental factors that can trigger a craving. And always remember that your family is worth any sacrifice.  

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