Get informed : Drugs and addictions

“WILL I GET HOOKED?”

You have less chance of developing an alcohol problem if:

• You have high self-esteem
• You know your strengths and your weaknesses
• You believe in your future and set goals for yourself
• You have friends you can trust and with whom you feel comfortable
• You have a good relationship with your parents
• You are active, have interests, and regularly participate in sports or leisure activities

However, you’ll have to be a little more careful if:

• People around you (friends, family members) often drink alcohol
• You feel alone, like you don’t have anyone to support you when you’re having problems
• You’re having problems at school
• You’re having problems at home
• You’re experiencing violence
• You’re under a lot of stress
• You have trouble setting goals and developing interests

OTHER SIGNS TO WATCH FOR

There are other signs that you are at risk of developing a problem:

• Most of your activities involve alcohol, and you constantly seek out activities in which alcohol will be present
• You choose friends based on whether or not they drink
• Your interests change, and you drop out of sports and activities that you used to enjoy
• You sometimes drink alone
• Every occasion seems like a good reason to party
• Your parents, friends, or teachers are worried about you

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

Examine your drinking habits:

• How often do you drink?
• On what occasions do you drink?
• Who do you drink with?
• How many drinks do you have?
• How much money do you spend on alcohol?

Identify the reasons you drink:

• What makes you drink?
• What do you get out of it? What are you looking for?
• Do you have problems dealing with your emotions?
• Do you find it hard to have fun?

Set goals for yourself:

• Do you want to stop drinking all at once or gradually?
• What are your goals? Are they realistic?
• What could help you achieve your goals?
• How would you benefit from stopping? What are the advantages?

Think of ways to meet your goals:

• Should you limit your contact with certain people for a little while?
• Are there other things you could do to keep you busy?
• How did you deal with your emotions before you started regularly drinking?
• Have you thought about how you can explain your choices and the steps you’re taking to those around you?
• Have you thought about seeking support in order to feel less alone and receive encouragement, support, and the tools you need to meet your goals?

Talk to a professional. There are people who can help you. You can find out what services are available in your region from the Drug: Information and Referral (1-800-265-2626, 24/7). Or, call or write Tel-jeunes at any time.