Everyone has hard days. Sometimes, people drink too much or use drugs to feel better, but most of the time, it’s not a big worry. But if someone starts to feel upset or scared when they do not have their drink or drug, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. Here, we look at clear, simple ways to know when you or someone you love might need extra help.
At My Tribe Counseling, we believe no one should walk this road alone. We help you find the proper care, build hope, and make life better.
1. You Crave Substance More Than Fun
When you first try alcohol or drugs, it may feel fun. But if you think about it all the time when you wake up, at school, or at work, you might need help. Your mind may say:
- “I need it now.”
- “I cannot do anything without it.”
This strong wish signifies that your body and brain have grown used to the substance. An evaluation can determine how serious it is and what to do next.
2. You Feel Sick without It
Have you ever felt shaky, sick, or uneasy when you stop using? These feelings are called withdrawal. Examples are:
- Sweating too much
- Shaking hands
- Feeling very restless
These signs mean your body misses the substance. A trained counselor at My Tribe Counseling can do an Alcohol and Substance Abuse Evaluation to see what’s causing the sickness and how to help you feel well again.
3. You Use More Than You Want
Imagine you plan to have one or two drinks. But later, you find yourself drinking many more. Or you promise to stop, but you keep going. This pattern shows a loss of control. You might say:
- “Just one more won’t hurt.”
- “I’ll stop tomorrow.”
But tomorrow comes, and you do the same thing again. This cycle can harm your health, work, and friends. A simple check-up with our friendly team at My Tribe Counseling can help you plan to cut back or stop.
4. You Spend Lots of Time Getting or Using Substances
Do you miss fun moments because you are buying alcohol or drugs? Do you skip chores, school, or work to use? Wasting time on substance use can leave you feeling empty inside. My Tribe Counseling offers Substance Use/Abuse Classes and Alcohol and Substance Abuse Evaluations to help you swap harmful habits for healthy ones. We also provide group services and classes so you can meet others who share your goal of living substance-free.
5. You Do Risky Things
High driving speeds, unsafe places, or mixing substances can put you in danger. If you have felt scared or gotten hurt when you were under the influence, it’s time to think about an evaluation. My Tribe Counseling’s counselors will guide you without making you feel bad. We work to remove barriers like fear or worry so you can get the care you need, no matter what.
6. You Hide Your Use
You always lock your bottles or hide your pills. When family members or friends inquire about your drug or alcohol use, you feel bad. This secret-keeping can grow bigger over time and damage trust. An Alcohol and Substance Abuse Evaluation at My Tribe Counseling is done in a safe space. Nothing you say is shared without your OK. You can speak freely and start to feel relief right away.
7. You Lose Interest in Hobbies
When you used to love sports, art, or reading but no longer care, it may be because substances take over. Small joys disappear, and you only focus on getting more substance. Our Healthy Relationship Classes and Growing Girls Group or M.I.T. Boys Group can help you find new passions and friends who support your journey to better health.
8. You Feel Sad, Anxious, or Angry
Mood swings and low feelings can be part of everyday life. But when you use substances to chase away sad or anxious thoughts, you are at risk of making those feelings worse. A Mental Health Status Evaluation at My Tribe Counseling examines both your mental health and substance use. We believe healing the mind and body brings real hope and change.
9. Family or Friends Say They Are Worried
Loved ones may tell you they are scared for you. They might note changes in your mood, school, or work. It can be hard to hear this, but it shows they care. If you make excuses or brush off their concerns, pause for a moment. Talk with a counselor at My Tribe Counseling. We offer Family Counseling and Parenting Classes to help families heal as a unit.
10. You Keep Using Despite Problems
Even when you know substances hurt you, you keep going. This stubborn path means you might need a complete check-up. At My Tribe Counseling, our Bio-Psycho Social Evaluations examine your body, mind, and environment. We find what drives the use and build a plan that fits your life.
What Happens During a Substance Abuse Evaluation?
A substance abuse evaluation is not scary. It is a friendly chat to share your story and learn about your options. Here’s how it goes:
Talk and Listen
- You meet one-on-one with a counselor. You answer simple questions about your use, health, and life.
Check Health
- We look at any sickness or risks from substance use.
Plan Your Path
- Together, you create a plan. Maybe you need a group class, one-on-one counseling, or some tips to cut back.
Find Support
- My Tribe Counseling connects you to the right groups or services. You are never alone on this path.
Benefits of Getting an Evaluation
- Clarity: You learn precisely where you stand.
- Hope: You see a clear path to feel better.
- Support: You join a caring team that knows your name.
- Skills: You gain tools to handle stress without turning to substances.
- Community: You build a circle of friends who cheer for you.
How to Get Started at My Tribe Counseling
- Reach Out: Call or visit our website.
- Book an Evaluation: Choose a time that works for you.
- Join a Class or Group: Find the best fit for you. Choose from Anger Management Classes, Parenting Classes, or Substance Use/Abuse Classes.
- Keep Going: The healing process is a lengthy one. We’ll support you at every turn.
My Tribe Counseling’s mission is to remove barriers and help everyone feel they belong. Our vision is to be a close part of many communities, bringing hope and better health to all. No matter your story, you are part of our tribe.
Final Thoughts
Substance use can start small. Yet, it can grow until you feel stuck, lonely, or scared. If you see signs like intense cravings, hiding use, mood swings, or losing interest, it’s time to act. An evaluation is your first step toward a brighter path. At My Tribe Counseling, we restore hope, remove stigmas, and build a village where you belong. You deserve a life filled with joy, not fear. Let’s take the first step together.
Are you ready to begin? Reach out to My Tribe Counseling now for a no-judgment Alcohol and Substance Abuse Evaluation. You are not alone, and you won’t be.
FAQs
Q. Is it scary to talk about my use?
No. Counselors at My Tribe Counseling listen without judging. They want to help you feel safe.
Q. What happens after the evaluation?
You get a plan just for you. It might include one-on-one counseling, group classes, or tips to cut back.
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