When you think or know you have a problem with substance use or gambling, you may start thinking about making a change in your life. You may not be sure you’re ready to change, but you’re giving it serious thought. You may be starting to realize the effects your substance use or gambling is having on yourself and people around you. But you may still enjoy things about substance use or gambling, so you may be reluctant to stop.
If that sounds like your situation, you may be in the “thinking about it” step of the change journey.
Things you may be saying to yourself
- “I’ve been drinking a lot lately. Maybe too much.”
- “The drugs are still fun, but they’re all I seem to be thinking about these days.”
- “I’d like to quit smoking, but I’m not sure I’ll be able to.”
- “I almost didn’t make the mortgage payment last month. Sooner or later I’m going to have to do something about my gambling.”
Things you can do
- The main thing at this point is to decide whether the good things about your substance use or gambling are still worth putting up with the not-so-good things.
- Read everything you can about alcohol, other drugs and gambling. Learn about the effects of substance use and gambling problems on people, on families, on communities and on society.
- Think about your own reasons to change. Other people may have reasons they want you to change, but you’re the one who will decide whether and why you change.
- Inform yourself about the signs that someone might have a problem with substance use or gambling.
- Try keeping track of specific things like how much you drink each time, how many times a week you use drugs, or how much money you spend on gambling. Are you noticing patterns that concern you? That can help you tell if a problem might be developing.
- Talk to friends, family members and co-workers you trust. Tell them you’re thinking about changing. Their support and encouragement can help you move forward with the changes you’re thinking about.
- Some people spend a long time at this point in the journey, waiting for just the right reason to come along. Trust your instincts. Be ready to take specific steps to prepare for your change when you feel that the time is right.
- Have hope. Some people think it’s hopeless to think about change, because they’ve tried many times and no longer think they can ever succeed. But change is always possible.
How AADAC can help
- If you’re thinking about changing, it’s a great time to visit your local AADAC office. There are plenty of information resources on hand, and many offices offer info sessions for you and your family.
- Think about talking to an AADAC counsellor. By helping you take a look at your situation, they can help you decide whether you would like to make a change.
- You can also find out more by calling the AADAC Help Line at 1-866-33AADAC, or by reading the other information on this website.
Privacy Statement