Misusing prescription drugs means either taking someone else’s medication or not using your own meds as directed by a doctor. This misuse can relate to any type of prescription drugs, like stimulants, sedatives, anti-anxiety meds or opioid painkillers. Misusing these substances can have serious health risks, like overdose or even death. If you or someone you care about is struggling with this, please get professional help soon.
Let’s jump into some ways you can avoid becoming addicted to drugs:
1) Don’t Give in to Peer Pressure
It’s not uncommon for people to start using drugs due to peer pressure. Maybe you and your buddies only planned to use drugs for fun parties, but then it starts to get out of hand and addiction develops. If you find that you’re hanging with pals who are pushing you to try drugs, it’s time for a new group of friends. People who pressure you into risky or unhealthy behavior aren’t looking out for you. It’s better to surround yourself with people who indulge in healthier, safer activities.
2) Reflect on The Impact of Addiction
Look at your life, consider what matters to you, and ponder on how addiction is negatively affecting you. Think about the benefits of living a sober life. A simple way to do this reflection is daily journaling, which allows you to spot patterns, identify triggers, set goals and find motivation. Journaling can be a powerful tool to support your journey towards overcoming addiction.
3) Find Healthy Ways to Get Over Tough Times
Everyone faces rough times in life, it’s inevitable. During these challenging moments, some people may resort to drugs, but there are healthier alternatives. It’s important to remember that everyone deals with their own struggles, even if they seem okay on the surface. Find out what eases your stress and provides comfort – it could be music, exercise, art, reading, films, or spending quality time with people you love. Make a list of these things and use it to help you through tough times.
4) Stick to Your Prescription Instructions
Remember, some prescription meds can be as addictive, or even more so, than illegal drugs. Drugs misuse is a significant cause of deaths, even more than hard drugs combined. If you’re susceptible to addiction, you need to be extra careful, particularly with highly addictive drugs. Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely when using any type of medicine, even those bought over-the-counter.
If you’re worried you might not stick to the prescribed dosage, ask a trusted person in your life to help you manage it, so the medicine is used safely.
5) Have a Chat with Your Doctor
Be open with your doctor about your medical history and any concerns you have about addiction. This info helps doctors make the wisest decision when prescribing medication for you. Some medicines have a higher risk of addiction. So, before you start any new medication, understand the possible side effects by discussing them with your doctor.
Remember, It’s never too late to seek help for addiction. The first step on the journey to recovery is asking for help. Post-recovery, continue to use these strategies to avoid falling back into old habits and to maintain your health.
