Struggling to Control Substance Use
When Substance Use Starts Causing Problems
Those who have come out the other side of a substance use issue will often describe their substance use as moving through three stages:
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Functional
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Functional with problems
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Just problems
Most people seek help during the second or third stage.
At stages two and three, a person may attempt to quit or reduce their substance use but find themselves unable to do so despite repeated attempts. Some consider this the very definition of addiction: being unable to stop despite repeated attempts to do so.
For many people, the motivation to quit or cut back comes from the negative impact substance use is having on their relationships, career, finances, physical health and/or mental health. They may still be functioning in many areas of life, but things are becoming harder to manage over time. They may feel frustrated with themselves, stuck in the same cycle, or worried about where things are heading.
"I'm Not Even Sure If I Have a Problem"
One of the more confusing aspects of addiction is that a person can be experiencing significant consequences from their substance use and still not be sure whether they actually have a problem.
This uncertainty is common, even at stage three.
In many recovery programs, the first step is:
"Admitting that we had a problem that we alone could not control."
That can be a difficult thing to acknowledge. Many people spend a long time trying to convince themselves that things are still under control, despite repeated attempts to change and mounting evidence to the contrary.
Even if you're not yet sure whether you have a substance use problem, it is worth seeking support. People are rarely concerned about a substance use problem that is not there. If anything, it is usually the other way around.
You Don't Need to Hit Rock Bottom
Addiction is generally considered a progressive illness, meaning it tends to get worse over time if left unaddressed.
Whilst addiction can strike at any time, it is common for the worst period of a person's addiction to occur during their late 30s, 40s, and 50s, particularly when alcohol is involved.
There is a saying in recovery that:
"You don't need to take the elevator all the way to the basement."
The basement refers to the final stage of addiction, which can involve homelessness, jail, serious health consequences, or worse.
The good news is that addiction is very treatable, particularly when it is addressed before reaching this point. No one is beyond help, and many people reach their rock bottom and become ready to address their addiction at surprising times.
Recovery looks different for everyone. Whether someone is questioning their relationship with alcohol or substances, trying to regain control, or feeling exhausted from repeating the same pattern, seeking help early can prevent a great deal of unnecessary suffering.