Admitting you have a problem with substance abuse, or a psychological disorder is frightening – what will your family say? What about your job? There are stigma and shame surrounding addiction and mental illness but the truth is, without treatment, someone addicted to drugs or alcohol with a dual diagnosis will only get worse. Patients don’t want to tell their families they have a problem but it’s better to admit there are issues and seek help before you must be picked up at the local jail, hospital, or before your family has to ID your body.
Substance abuse with mental disorders looks different in different people. However, if you identify with the following statements, you are at risk of serious consequences and should seek help immediately.