In general, rock bottom is defined as the lowest point/level or being in the most awful situation. A phrase defined without trouble but is vital in the discourse of addiction. It has subjective meanings but absolute ‘rock bottom’ for an addict means death.
Our society has a common perception with the phrase ‘rock bottom.’ Inculcated through television where it is used as a contradictory phrase for ‘happily ever after’. But in actuality, its meaning is variable to people from different walks of life, and same goes for every addict.
Variable interpretation for it is due to different discernment of ‘worst’ based on experiences. Likewise, addicts do come across to these things. However, misconceptions come into picture when an addict hit rock bottom.
1. What Does Rock Bottom Really Mean?
Rock bottom is where people end up once they spiraled down towards their endpoint. It differs depending on how they perceive levels, values, and experiences.
There are a lot of ‘rock bottoms.’ For instance, for some, it may be divorce, terminal disease, getting arrested, and many more. You do not have to experience them similarly to justify if it is ‘rock bottom.’
Although, when talking about addiction, the real ‘rock bottom’ is death. Some thought they already hit rock bottom but the truth is no. It is a delusion prevalent especially to someone with an addiction.
2. Rock Bottom Is Not A Goal
People with addiction should not be detested. In fact, addiction is a disease. Just like other diseases, it needs medical attention.
Rock bottom is neither a goal nor a destination. Why choose to prolong the agony? Would you want them to suffer further than they already do? With this in mind, being a friend, a family, or someone who knows an addict, reach out to help them.
Moreover, hitting rock bottom is the worst misunderstanding in the addiction field. The idea of reaching it before seeking medical help is a mistake. Addicts should be provided with proper medical attention before their condition gets worse.
3. Do Not Wait For It
Addiction gets worse along with time. The prolonged use of substances brings irreversible effects on their health. Aside from the physiological suffering, other aspects such as mental, spiritual, and social might also reach its toll.
Do not let someone with addiction reach rock bottom before taking action. So as the saying goes, ‘the earlier the better.’ Generally, this saying applies very well especially in providing health care.
If only addicts get proper treatment beforehand, the devastating effects on their health will significantly decrease. Thus, it is a concern that needs immediate positive response. Despite the urgency to it, you must bear in mind that it is not going to be easy.
You have to fully understand and assess the addict’s situation first before extending help. Most of them have issues with their family. Others find it difficult because they think they are too hopeless. Furthermore, they also dread the physiological pain to be brought by the withdrawal stage.
Regardless of what reason, you must not let them suffer more especially if you are capable of doing something. There is no absolute or best way to treat an addiction. But, we have our professional health care workers that will help us with recovery and treatment.
4. Helping Someone With Addiction
It is tough if you are looking after someone with an addiction. You may feel tired and isolated since your dilemma is something hard to open up to others. Plus, you may not be ready for the judgmental remarks to be spat at you.
You do not need to be wary because there are organizations, groups and forums that are able to help you. These people will help you based on their experiences. You can open up and they will help you address your problem.
With the right people and information, you will be able to plan on how to encourage an addict to seek help.
5. What You Need To Do
Based on the aforementioned, it is not easy for an addict to seek help and most importantly, to change. Even though their condition requires an immediate response, force is not the solution. If you keep on shoving the idea of therapy and treatment unto their throats, it will be futile.
Patience is important. They may be not yet ready to change but you still have to be there. Show and make them feel that you understand them.
First, you have to plan on how you will work it out. If you are distressed on how to start, you may consult a health care professional. They will guide you with tried methods that might help you.
Second, be a positive influence on them, do not tolerate their addiction. Help them minimize their usage of harmful drugs or substances. Prevent them from plunging further into darkness.
Lastly, you must let them know that there is always an aid or support waiting for them. Encourage them that there is always a chance for them. Regardless of the severity of their condition, it is never late for them to seek help.
6. Things To Keep In Mind
Indeed, there is nothing more blissful once an addict decides to seek help or change. However, it is just the beginning upon reaching recovery. It may be a long process but the life-changing results are guaranteed.
With continued support, they will probably get there sooner. Help them keep up with the choice they made because it will be more difficult along the way. There are a lot of challenges such as brushing off the cravings and avoiding their old habits.
But despite all the effort, if he or she had a relapse, do not be disheartened. It is a phrase that usually happens. Also, it is where you have to note further triggers and what went wrong with the current treatment method.
Conclusion
The best approach when an addict hits rock bottom is the reverse of it – do not let them end up there. Rock bottom is not something to aim for before seeking treatment. Prevention is better than letting someone succumb to their addiction.
It is a challenging road, so patience is essential. There is no best treatment for all, it depends on the addict’s needs and substance used. Right information helps planning for an approach to treatment and recovery. Most importantly, help break the stigma because addiction is a disease that needs serious medical attention and not condemnation.
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