Getting and Staying Sober from Salina, Kansas
Salina, Kansas is the county seat of Saline County, one of the largest wheat-producing areas in the world. It is a regional trade center for North-Central Kansas, and attracts more than corporate trade. Salina is home to multiple institutions of higher education. Brown Mackie College, Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus, Kansas Wesleyan University and many others all call this city home. Even in such an affluent and educated area, many people get addicted to alcohol and others drugs. The disease of addiction grabs hold of and destroys many lives.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a disease of the mind. The problem is believed to lie in the pleasure, reward circuitry center of the brain. The brain's circuits are essentially hijacked by the substance and replaces survival as the most important thing to obtain. This seems to be why people continue to use despite negative consequences. The drug to them is more important than anything and they honestly cannot see how their using and behavior negatively affect others.
How Can I Get Through to a Friend Who Won't Stop Using?
The best way to communicate your concerns is to stage an intervention. An intervention is where the person is confronted about his or her using and behavior and is encouraged to enter a rehab facility. It is recommended that you consult with an intervention specialist as the conversation with a person in active addiction can be difficult. The professional can help keep the conversation calm and focused and help you to get your message across.
No one recovers from addiction without help. The important thing is that you remain non-judgmental and loving. Even if your friend is not ready to hear your message now, by staying compassionate you keep the door of communication open for the future.
Should I Go to Inpatient or Outpatient Rehab?
For most people, inpatient rehab is strongly recommended. Outpatient treatment is best attempted following a stay inpatient. Inpatient provides the necessary intensive therapy and round the clock support that is crucial to long term recovery. Only if you absolutely cannot attend inpatient treatment should you start rehab with outpatient rehab.
12-step programs offer the best approach to defeating the disease of addiction. Millions of people worldwide have been able to stop using and stay abstinent with the help of the 12-steps. If you are stuck in the vicious cycle of addiction in Salina, find a meeting in your area and get connected. Fellow meeting members help each other overcome some of the most difficult situations successfully. Find a meeting in your area today and get started living!
