Why drugs and alcohol will not help your mental health issues

Stanley Popovich

Special to Village News

Using alcohol and drugs will not take away your problems and fears. In the short run, they might make you feel better, but in the long run these addictions will only make things worse.

Here are some ways on how to manage your persistent fears and anxieties without drugs and alcohol.

1. Take it one day at a time. Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or month, try to focus on today. Each day can provide us with different opportunities to learn new things and that includes learning how to deal with problems.

2. Learn how to manage fearful thoughts. When experiencing a negative thought, read some positive statements and affirmations that will help lift your spirits and make you feel better. Remember that fearful thoughts may be exaggerated so balance these thoughts with realistic thinking and common sense.

3. Take advantage of the help that is available around you. If possible, talk to a professional who can help you manage fears and anxieties. They will be able to provide you with additional advice and insights on how to deal with your current problem. By talking to a professional, a person will be helping themselves in the long run because they will become better able to deal with their problems in the future.

4. Do not do everything all at once. The best solution is to break fears or problems into a series of smaller steps. Completing these smaller tasks one step at a time will make the stress more manageable and increases your chances of success.

5. Drugs and alcohol are not the answers to your problems. Getting the help you need and learning how to deal with your situation are the best ways in managing your fears, anxieties and other mental health issues. In time, you will become better able to manage your problems.

6. Managing your anxieties will take some hard work. Trying to avoid your problems will do nothing in getting rid of your fears and anxieties. Sooner or later, you will have to confront your mental health issues. Remember that all you can do is to do your best each day, hope for the best and take things in stride.

Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear Using Psychology, Christianity and Non-Resistant Methods." His book has become popular with over 300 positive book reviews and counting. For more information, visit http://www.managingfear.com.