Alcohol or Drug Issues
Alcoholism has been considered to be one of humanity's oldest diseases, with an impact that affects not only the troubled individual, but their families, co-workers, and society. Alcohol abuse has contributed to family dysfunction, lost employment, decreased work efficiency and, in far too many cases, serious injuries and/or death.
People of all ages and from all walks of life can become addicted to legal or illegal substances. Alcohol or drug dependency happens when a physical, as well as a psychological, need for a drug develops. Any sudden or profound changes in behavior can be a signal of a substance abuse problem.
STEPS TO END THE ADDICTION*
- Acknowledge the problem to yourself and those around you.
- Limit the time you spend around people who model and encourage substance abuse.
- Seek professional help from a doctor, therapist, or a chemical dependency organization. There are also recovery and counseling programs at hospitals and private clinics. In addition, many employers have employee assistance programs that will confidentially assist you in getting help.
- Get support from others who have had substance abuse problems.
*Reprinted with permission of Parlay International Kopy Kit(r)
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help . . .
- Your Employee Assistance Program Coordinator can assist you by identifying local providers and help you arrange for treatment.
- The Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services has toll-free help lines and treatment or prevention services information.
- If you are in a crisis or emergency situation, you can go to your local emergency room.