The first step toward getting help is recognizing that your substance abuse is a problem. This is rarely easy. The following is a list of questions, though not inclusive, that you should ask yourself.

Do you feel irritated when other people comment on how much you drink/use drugs? Do you ever drink or use drugs when you are alone? Have you had periods of time while you were drinking or using drugs that you could not remember later? Have you ever had problems with friends, school, or work, or arrested as a result of drinking or using drugs? Have you ever wondered whether you have a drinking or drug problem?

If you think you have a problem there are groups and counseling services available. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) offer self-help groups and can be found in the phone book.

Most major cities have gay and lesbian AA and NA groups. (See your local gay/lesbian community center, hotline, or “Welcoming Congregation” for details.

There are also private therapists specializing in alcohol and drug addiction.

The process of recovery allows you to heal by working through those feelings you have pushed down with alcohol and/or drugs. It is often said that when you have a substance abuse problem, your emotional development stops when you start abusing. When you medicate your feelings, you numb yourself from conflicts and reality. Once you decide to no longer abuse, those feelings and emotions will surface and may be overwhelming. Self-help groups offer a safe and supportive environment where people share common experience, strength and hope.

This article was written by Dot Wojakowski as part of a Challenge Grant, produced and distributed by McGill Student Health Services.