Finally acknowledging that you have a problem can be the most challenging and the yet the most rewarding step in your recovery process. How can a problem be addressed unless there is recognition of that problem? The following questions can assist you in identifying if a problem exists, and if it indeed does, the extent of that problem:
Have you ever lied or been dishonest about your drug and/or alcohol usage?
Have you ever experienced shame or guilt around your drug and/or alcohol usage?
Has the use of drugs and/or alcohol negatively affected your work and/or education?
Has the use of drugs and/or alcohol negatively affected your relationship with friends, family and colleagues?
Have any loved ones voiced concerns about your drug and/or alcohol usage?
Have you ever misused drugs prescribed by a doctor?
Do you find yourself using drugs and/or alcohol more when you are feeling negative emotions such as anxiety, depression or anger?
Have you ever mixed different classes of drugs or mixed drugs with alcohol?
Have you ever unsuccessfully attempted to stop or control your drug and/or alcohol usage?
Have drugs and/or alcohol ever been the cause of you abandoning hobbies or interests that you usually partake in?
Have you ever lost consciousness or failed to remember certain events as a result of drugs and/or alcohol?
Have you ever compromised either your own safety, or the safety of somebody else as a result of using drugs and/or alcohol?