Deciding to stop
Question
I have been using amphetamines and ecstasy, recreationally, since I was about 18 and recently decided I want to stop. I didn't take them all the time, sometimes it was once a month and sometimes every weekend, but I'd really like to give up for good.
Do you have any tips for giving up? I also want to be able to say no to my mates who are all still using drugs. I'm trying really hard but every time I seem to let myself down. Can you help?
Answer
You should be really proud of yourself for deciding that you want to stop. It can be a very difficult decision to make, especially if you are using recreationally. Most people think that recreational use won't harm them, but there are risks and effects involved with using amphetamines (also known as speed) or ecstasy over a long period of time.
There is a lot of support available to you. Frank has a confidential helpline you can call on 0800 77 66 00 and a directory of local drug and alcohol services where you can find a support programme specifically designed to meet your needs. A lot of people think that they have to be serious drug users to access support from these services but, in most cases, this is not true. So, it would be useful for you to check out what's available in your area.
One of the mistakes that people make when they decide to stop using is that they set themselves unrealistic goals. When they don't achieve these goals they feel discouraged. It seems like this is what is happening with you, since you mentioned that every time you try, you feel like you have let yourself down. Goals should be simple, realistic and achievable.
Perhaps you should look at gradually cutting down your use rather than trying to do it all at once. You could decide on a maximum amount you will use in a month and try to stick to that. If you do manage to stick to it, try for the same amount again the next month. Gradually reduce the maximum amount every month until you're not taking anything. Be sure to set yourself a realistic time scale, focusing from month to month rather than working toward a deadline. It could take you a year to stop completely. If you do it this way, then you will be less likely to feel discouraged because you are making a change in a realistic way.
Another useful thing to do is to keep a drug diary. If you keep a record of how much you are using, where you were and who you were with it can help you to make a plan on how to avoid situations where you are tempted to use. This isn't easy, because you may find that you need to avoid some of your friends and places you enjoy. Remember, really are making a decision to change the way you live. You might find that you will develop new interests and friends that support you in your goal to stay away from amphetamines and ecstasy. But if you need further help a support worker can also help guide you through these changes.
Rather than thinking of this as another time that you are going to let yourself down, look at it as an exciting challenge and try to enjoy the process.
Updated: 01/02/2007
Question answered by Addaction
