“Personal responsibility can be an important part of recovery, but responsibility is not the same as blame.”
Adam Ligas, MD – Medical Director
Substance use can affect anyone. It does not matter how old you are, what you do for work or where you come from. Many people use alcohol or other substances from time to time. But when substance use starts to affect your health, relationships or daily life, it may be a sign of a bigger problem. Remember: help is available, treatment works and recovery is possible.
In a recent info session, Lucet experts Adam Ligas, MD (Medical Director) and Hannah Rife, LCSW-C (Manager, Utilization Management) shared ways to spot problematic substance use and where to find support.
What does problematic substance use look like?
Substance use problems can look different from person to person. Some people may have trouble at work or school. Others may pull away from family and friends. Changes in sleep, mood, appetite, finances or daily routines can also be warning signs.
Dr. Ligas explained: “The goal today is not to label, it’s not to judge.” Instead, he encouraged people to focus on whether substance use is causing harm and when it may be time to seek support.
He also emphasized an important message: “Personal responsibility can be an important part of recovery, but responsibility is not the same as blame.”
Common myths can delay treatment
Many people wait too long to seek help because of stigma or myths about addiction. One common myth is that a person must “hit rock bottom” before treatment can help. That is not true. Getting help early can lead to better outcomes.
Another myth is that addiction happens because of poor choices or weak character. In reality, substance use disorders are medical conditions. They can be affected by genetics, stress, trauma, life experiences and brain chemistry.
Knowing the facts can make it easier to talk about substance use and ask for help without shame
Recovery is not one-size-fits-all
There is no single path to recovery. The right treatment plan depends on each person’s needs. Some people do well with outpatient counseling while continuing to work or care for family. Others may need a higher level of care. Support groups, family support and medication can also help.
Rife explained that recovery looks different for everyone and that the best treatment plan depends on many factors.
“A return to use is not a moral failure. It does not erase the progress that someone has already made.”
“Being supportive doesn’t necessarily mean solving all of the problems. Support can really just mean listening, offering encouragement and remaining present.”
Hannah Rife, LCSW-C – Manager, Utilization Management
How to support a loved one
It can be hard to watch someone you care about struggle with substance use. If they are not ready to accept help, try to approach them with care instead of judgment. Talk about specific changes you have noticed, such as problems with health, work or relationships.
It is also important to set healthy boundaries. You can support someone while still caring for your own well-being.
“Being supportive doesn’t necessarily mean solving all of the problems. Support can really just mean listening, offering encouragement and remaining present,” Rife noted.
Take the first step
If you are worried about your own substance use or concerned about a loved one, know that you are not alone. Recovery takes time, but support and treatment can help. You do not need to have all the answers today. The first step is simply reaching out.
If you have concerns about substance use, talk with a health care professional or contact your health plan’s behavioral health resources to learn about treatment and recovery support options.
Rachel Jenkins is marketing manager at Lucet.
