FREEDOM FROM

ADDICTION

You Can Recover

Presented by Melissa Evans

By changing attitudes and finding

solutions through our own

program of recovery, we can

regain our sense of hope, serenity,

freedom, and joy. -Anonymous

What is Addiction?

Drug addiction is a complex illness characterized by intense and, at times, uncontrollable drug craving, along with compulsive drug seeking and use that

persists even in the face of devastating consequences.

But you can get help!

Are You at Risk?

As with many other conditions and

diseases, vulnerability to addiction

differs from person to person. Your

genes, age when you started taking

drugs, and family and social

environment all play a role in addiction.

Risk Factors

Family history of addiction

Abuse, neglect, or other traumatic

experiences in childhood

Mental disorders such as depression

and anxiety

Early use of drugs

Know the Signs Do you feel like you can’t stop, even if

you wanted to? Do you ever feel bad or guilty about

your drug use? Do you need to use drugs to relax or

feel better? Do your friends or family members

complain or worry about your drug use?

Know the Signs Do you hide or lie about your drug use?

Have you ever done anything illegal in order to obtain drugs?

Do you spend money on drugs that you really can’t afford?

Do you ever use more than one recreational drug at a time?

Getting Help

If you’re ready to admit you have a drug problem….

Congratulations!

Recognizing that you have a problem is the first step on the road to recovery.

Freedom Can Be Yours

You can be free if you want it and are willing to work hard for it.

Recovery from addiction is a difficult process, especially in the beginning.

It’s very important to find a treatment program that is right for you.

A Good Place to Start

Repeat this to yourself several times each day.

The Serenity Prayer

God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the Strength to

change the things I can, and the Wisdom to know the difference. Just for Today.

It Takes Patience and Work

Because drug abuse and addiction have so many dimensions and disrupt so many aspects of an individual's life,

TREATMENT IS NOT SIMPLE.

You Can Do ItAddiction treatment goals:

Stop using drugs.

Maintain a drug-free lifestyle.

Function productively in family, at work and in society.

Forms of Treatment

Inpatient Treatment Long term Short term

Chemical Intervention Methadone Suboxone Naltrexone Implants

Narcotics/Alcoholics Anonymous

Go to Meetings

Get a Sponsor

Work the 12-Step Program

Stay Clean

One Day at a Time

Recovery is an ongoing process.

There are no quick fixes for drug addiction and alcoholism.

Most addicts need months or even years of counseling.

Don’t Give Up!

Don’t drink or drug-No matter what.

Develop a support system.

Take it a day at a time.

Give yourself credit for clean time.

Learn to Live Again

There is life after addiction.

Avoid old people, places and things.

Set goals.

Form new relationships.

Take it slow.

A New Life Begins Here

If you or someone you know suffers with drug or alcohol addiction-Make the call.

1-800-784-6776

Do it NOW!