Skip to content
Substance misuse can affect anyone, at any stage of life. It can occur across ages, backgrounds, income levels, professions, and family circumstances. A person’s relationship with alcohol or other substances can be influenced by many factors, including biology and genetics, mental health, trauma, relationships, environment, socioeconomic circumstances, or experiences throughout life. Sometimes, there may not be one clear reason why substance use becomes difficult to manage.
What matters is recognizing when something may be changing and knowing that support is available.
It can be helpful to pause and ask yourself: Has my relationship with alcohol or other substances changed? Am I using more than I used to? Am I relying on substances to cope with stress, difficult emotions, or everyday life? Have I tried to cut back and found it harder than expected? Do I feel concerned, guilty, or uncomfortable about my use?
These questions aren’t meant to diagnose a problem. They are simply opportunities to check in with yourself. Substance use exists on a spectrum, and everyone’s circumstances are different. Paying attention to changes in your behavior, emotions, relationships, or overall well-being can help you recognize when additional support might be useful.
You may notice changes in sleep, energy, mood, or interest in activities you once enjoyed. Relationships may begin to feel different. Or you may find yourself thinking more often about when or how you will use a substance. Sometimes the earliest sign is simply a feeling that something isn’t quite right. You don’t have to be certain that there is a problem before reaching out for support.
Recovery is a journey, not a single event. It can be challenging, and it doesn’t look the same for everyone. For some, recovery may begin with learning more about their substance use or talking with someone they trust. Others may benefit from counseling, peer support, treatment, or help addressing the circumstances that may be contributing to substance use. There can be setbacks along the way, too. The important thing is finding support that fits your needs and taking the next step.
Your AllOne Health Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to help. You and eligible family members can access confidential, no-cost support for substance use concerns—whether you’re looking for information, talking with a counselor, exploring treatment options, or supporting someone you care about. The EAP can also help with related concerns such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, or major life changes.
You don’t have to wait until a concern becomes a crisis to ask for help. Whether you’re simply wondering if something has changed, concerned about someone you care about, or ready to make a change, support is available—and you don’t have to navigate the journey alone.
To learn more, visit the AllOne Health Member Portal or contact your EAP.
