Getting and staying sober isn’t easy, especially when you’re living in a big city. It’s easy to get lost among the skyscrapers. But no matter where you are, you aren’t alone.
It is possible to get the help that you need. It just might be a bit more difficult to find it. A bit of research might be necessary.
Here’s how you can find the right treatment.
1. Find A Meeting
Organizations like AA, Alcoholics Anonymous, are everywhere.
Every big city has a group that meets on a regular basis. If there isn’t one near you, check for online options. The best part is that it’s anonymous and free.
Going to a group like AA can be a scary prospect. But everyone who’s been through the program was just as scared as you were at first.
If you’re nervous about going alone, ask a friend to drive you. Maybe you know someone who’s in the program whom you can go with.
AA isn’t for everyone. There are other groups and programs designed for addicts. Alcohol isn’t everyone’s problem.
You might have another addiction that requires unique treatment.
2. Professional Help
It’ll be hard to stay sober without professional help.
There are many different types of professional treatment programs. Rehab is usually the best way to get sober quickly, but it’s not right for everyone.
It’s not always practical to spend months in rehab. There might also not be enough space in the rehab center that you want. If this is the case, an intensive outpatient program is the best option.
There are many group IOP services in Los Angeles. Group programs are an excellent option because they remind you that you aren’t alone.
They are also a good option when multiple family members have an addiction. Addiction is never an isolated problem.
Even if more than one person isn’t an addict, there are other issues at play. Treatment involves difficult conversations. However, it’s easier than living as an addict for the rest of your life.
Professional treatment can be expensive.
Not all insurance programs will cover rehab. IOP treatments aren’t as expensive as inpatient programs. They also make it easier to continue with work and everyday life while pursuing treatment.
The most important thing is to find the right program.
3. Pick Good Friends
Hanging out with other addicts isn’t always the best idea.
You don’t have to totally cut addicts out of your life. If you’re both pursuing sobriety your friendships can even be very rewarding.
Find friends who are going to support you. Tell them about your struggles and ask them to keep you accountable. Find someone you can call when you’re tempted to drink or do drugs.
Reach out to old friends and family members.
If you’re worried about your friends, tell them. Conversations about addiction are not easy. But they are necessary.
Your friends might not be happy when you tell them they have a problem. It could damage your friendship, but it could save their life.
It’s more important to do the right thing than watch someone get hurt.
4. Avoid Parties
There is more to do than party every weekend.
Get out and escape in nature. Visit the state and national parks near L.A.
If nature isn’t your thing, find a hobby that you like. Take up photography or something that gives you a creative outlet.
Even video games can be meditative. Find activities that you can do both with yourself and with friends. It’s important to have a social life that goes beyond drinking.
Ask friends to be supportive and not drink around you. They might not like the idea. But if they have a problem with it, they might have a drinking problem, too.
If they’re really your friends, they’ll be supportive.
5. Be Honest
Admitting you have a problem is always the first step.
If you keep denying your problem, ask yourself why. There is no shame in admitting that there is something wrong. In fact, it’s a sign of strength.
You don’t need to tell everyone you’re an addict at once.
That might not even be the best idea. Some people won’t react to the information well. It’s best to start by telling people that you trust.
That’s not always going to be your family.
Tell your friends. Tell strangers if it helps. Tell your pet or your diary.
Just be honest with yourself.
Conclusion
Getting help can be hard, but it isn’t impossible. Even in big cities, you can find the treatment you need.
