This blog often discusses the dangers of drug and alcohol addiction, various problems, and things that can go wrong. Doing so is necessary, because substance use disorder is dangerous and may create several problems for individuals and the people who know them.
But it’s also refreshing to talk about things that may go right, about positive developments related to substance use disorder. One such development is information about quitting smoking.
Ending smoking may greatly improve a person’s quality of life because the nicotine and other chemicals found in tobacco products may cause or worsen many health problems. Study after study has found that smoking lessens the quality of our lives and often shortens them entirely.
Researchers have discovered that using the buddy system may be a good way to quit smoking. In part, this is because people may help distract each other. They may lean on each other if they crave nicotine and experience withdrawal symptoms.
Partnering up to quit smoking may be also useful because it’s just that: partnering up. When people quit together, they’re providing support. Social support systems may be very helpful in fighting all sorts of addiction. In fact, the common perception of addiction support is the 12-step meetings employed by organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous (AA and NA).
People may have this perception because such meetings are a common way people fight addiction. People attend such meetings to learn from others and to help others. Did you know that many addiction treatment centers feature such meetings? They do, and professionals at the centers also help people find meetings to attend after they leave so they can continue their care.
Other people are a vital component in fighting substance use disorder. Studies have shown that providing social support and expressing emotion may help people find success in their addiction treatment. Social support can help people find assistance, support them during their treatment, and cheer their continued sobriety. In the battle against addiction, other people may mean everything.
