Help for Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Many of us think that some people can't stop drinking or taking drugs. We think they just don't have willpower. This is not true. Addiction is a disease. A person who has an addiction is no more to blame than a person who has asthma or diabetes.

A person with addiction may have strong cravings. These cravings may be for alcohol or for drugs. The person with addiction may not be able to limit how much and how often he or she drinks or takes drugs. Sometimes addictions run in families. For example, if your mother was addicted to alcohol, you are more likely to have this problem too.

The disease may get worse as time passes. The more you drink, the more you depend on alcohol. The same is true for drugs. You gradually need more to feel "high." Then your addiction affects other areas of your life. For example, it can make you sick. It can cause problems with your family, friends, and job.

It can be hard to ask for help. If you think you have a problem, tell your doctor. Also tell your doctor if you think a loved one has a problem. Your doctor will know what to do. Or call the National Drug and Alcohol Treatment Referral Routing Service at 1-800-662-4357. You can get information on support groups near you.