Misusing prescribed medicine happens when you take someone else’s medication or do not follow your own prescription’s instructions properly. This includes all types of prescription drugs like stimulants, sedatives, anxiety drugs, and painkillers. Misuse can result in severe health problems, even overdosing or death. Seek professional help immediately if you or someone you know is battling prescription drug abuse.
Here are five tips to steer clear of drug addiction:
1) Be Wary of Peer Pressure
Peer pressure can often lead to experimenting with drugs and becoming habitual. Make sure you avoid company that urges you to take drugs. Remember – real friends won’t ask you to do anything dangerous or harmful. Adventure can be sought in healthier activities, so find a group that does those.
2) Reflect on Your Addiction
Think about how addiction has affected you, and how your life will be better once you’re on the road to recovery. Keeping a daily journal can be a helpful starting point for this reflection. In it, document patterns, triggers, and feelings to aid you in devising a recovery plan.
3) Learn Strategies to Cope
Life is hard, and everyone has their struggles. In difficult times, some may resort to drugs, but there’re healthier ways to cope with stress. Find activities that relax you – music, exercise, art, reading, watching a movie, hanging out with a loved one. Having a reference list of these will help you navigate through gloomy days.
4) Follow Your Doctor’s Instruction for Medication
Certain prescribed medications are highly addictive. If you know you’re susceptible to addiction, be extra careful, especially with opioids. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for any medication you take. Over-the-counter drugs too should be used as per instructions. If you’re unsure about sticking to your prescription doses, ask a trusted person to help manage it.
5) Discuss the Risks with Your Doctor
Your doctor should be informed about your medical history and any addiction concerns. This will help them prescribe medications that are safest for you. Discuss the negative effects of any new medication before you start taking it.
Final Thoughts:
Don’t give up hope if you or a loved one is struggling with addiction. Reach out for help – it’s the first step towards a healthier life. After therapy, you can use these strategies to guard against future lapses and promote ongoing wellbeing.
Remember, it’s never too late to change your life for the better.
