Identifying and Gaining Control of Substance Use

Maybe it started as a way to unwind after a long day. Or to feel at ease in a social setting. But over time, you have started to wonder if your relationship with alcohol and drugs has changed. Sometimes concerns about our alcohol or drug use can sneak up on us. And if this has been your experience—you’re not alone. Recent surveys show that more than 1 in 10[i] Americans have struggled with substance misuse at some point in their lives. Misuse can turn our lives, jobs, and relationships upside down. Even those who don’t identify as heavy users can find benefits in cutting back.[ii]

If you are questioning your relationship with drugs and alcohol, it can help to actually ask yourself some questions to see if you could benefit from reducing or eliminating your use[iii]:

1. Do I notice changes in how I think, feel, or behave when I drink or use drugs?
2. Has the frequency of my use changed?
3. Do I use alcohol or drugs to escape when I am upset?
4. Do I use substances to gain courage or confidence in social situations?
5. Am I interested in the monetary benefits of cutting back?

If you are still unsure after considering these questions, Learn to Live can help. Our confidential assessment at learntolive.com/welcome/ndmedicaidexp (access code MEDEXP) can provide insight into whether our Substance Use program could be beneficial to you.

Our Substance Use program provides tips and tools such as:

• Identifying your WHYs: identifying your motivation for change and sticking with it
• Thought swapping: shifting your attention to decrease the power of cravings
• Crave riding: allowing the feelings and desires of craving wash over you until they pass
• Turn-down lines: assertively saying no when presented with an invitation to use

[i]Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2023, November 13). National survey on drug use and health.

[ii] https://www.self.com/story/we-asked-5-people-why-they-cut-back-on-alcohol

[iii] https://www.mhanational.org/