How do I know if I have a problem with drugs and alcohol. I am a member of Alanon because of a relationship with an addict. My parents were also both alcoholics, etc. I drank and drugged with my A, but my obsession seemed to be more about him than the drugs. However, I find that I do use when not with him- though for "recreational" purposes- meaning on Saturday night when playing cards, etc. I do feel guilty afterwards though I cannot put my finger on why. I mean thus far besides the guilt it does not seem to interefere with my daily life or responsibilities and though it does seem to be getting into a weekend pattern with new friends of mine, I don't crave it, etc. I just seem to want to do it when I drink. How do I know if it is a problem? When I mention this fear to my family they think I am overreacting and being to hard on myself.....
you may not have a problem yet...but right now if you want to stop, you have the power to. the longer and more frequent you use...the more likely that you will be to become an addict. I honestly do not know if you are or you arent but if you want to stop then put all of your energy into that.
You might be interested in the Information Pamphlet (IP) "Am I an Addict?"
You can find it online at http://www.na.org/ips/eng/index.htm
We can't really determine if you are an addict or not, if you have a problem or not. If you're not sure, you are welcome to attend some meetings to see if that brings you an answer.
Hi there! I just answered the same question for Jello. Basically, the only one that knows is the person that is consuming the alcohol or drugs. We know what we are doing and how much we need to get by.
Go to 90 meetings in 90 days, get a sponsor, work the 12-steps, stay in Recovery, help out in the fellowship, stay away from slippery people, places, and things. These are all blessings even if you aren't a drunk or addict.
Why are we using, drinking. Are we doing it because we have a compulsion? I have a mental compulsion and a physical allergy once I start I have to have alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs all the time.
It sets off a chain of events that make me unable to stop, getting violent, crazy, sick, blackouts. That is the disease! It was the same way with cocaine use I couldn't stop myself it was the cravings. Cocaine would paralyze me after years of use. I was unable to speak or move my body. All my muscles would freeze up and make me unable to walk or stand yet I would still do anything for another hit. It was horrible.
Because it was the 1980's and we had allot of money then. Drinking and cocaine use the way I used it, I burnt a hole into the septum of my nose. It's the size of a pencil that bleeds today. Reminding me of the lifestyle I once lived.
My life is very blessed today. My health paid a price though after 28 years, Hepatitis and Fibromyalgia, with Chronic Pain.
If you think there is such a thing as recreational alcohol and drug use. THINK AGAIN! That's a lie straight from HELL.
