Questions To Ask Yourself

If you’re wondering whether you should reach out for help, chances are you would benefit from a moment of self-reflection and truth-telling. More than half of all Australians will experience a mental health or addiction issue in their lifetime. No-one is immune – addiction, depression, anxiety and the impacts of trauma cut across every demographic, from gender to class to race to religion to education level to wealth.

Addiction comes in many forms, from substance addictions, like drugs and alcohol, to behavioural addictions, like gambling, work, sex, and gaming. In each case, it’s marked by obsession and compulsion, meaning you struggle to stop thinking about the substance or behaviour, and you struggle to stop even when you recognise potential negative consequences.

Mental health disorders like depression and anxiety can have debilitating effects on your life including your relationships, finances and career. Feelings of guilt, shame and fear can be overwhelming and create a sense of isolation and hopelessness.

If you’re wondering whether you need professional help or should seek treatment in a residential program, consider the questions below. Take the time to be honest with yourself. You are worthy of help, and recovery is always possible. 

For a free, confidential, professional assessment over the phone, call us 7 days a week on 1800 063 332. If you answer ‘yes’ to two or more questions, we urge you to seek professional advice.

• Am I having difficulty carrying out normal daily activities and responsibilities?
• Am I unable to do my work, or has my work suffered due to my feelings, behaviour or actions?
• Has there been an impact on my physical health or bodyweight?
• Have I tried and failed to stop a potential addiction or behaviour?
• Do I promise myself I’ll stop at a later date, only to find that I can’t?
• Have friends or family members raised concerns about me?
• Have friends or family members noticed a change in my appearance or behaviour?
• Do I hide what I am doing from others or deny it when confronted?
• Have I been engaging in illegal or unethical behaviour?
• Have I been pushing the boundaries of what I’m comfortable with?
• Do I feel overwhelmed by feelings of shame, guilt or fear?
• Am I having difficulty interacting with close friends, family, partners or strangers?
• Have I been avoiding people, situations or opportunities because I would rather engage in certain behaviour or because I am too anxious, tired or listless?
• Am I rationalising or excusing harmful or abnormal behaviour?
• Am I pretending something is temporary or expecting it to just get better?
• Have there been financial consequences as a result of my behaviour or feelings?
• Am I concerned about how my life is unfolding and want to change?
• Do I find myself surrounded by conflict and feel as if I’m under attack?
• Am I isolating myself and avoiding social situations?
• Do I feel unworthy of help or support?

If you found yourself answering ‘yes’ to a number of these questions, it is time to check in with professionals and explore your support options. Too many people wait too long to reach out.

While addiction and mental health issues can feel incredibly isolating, there are others who have gone through this before and who are ready to share their journey to recovery as you start yours. At South Pacific Private we believe change is always possible, and everybody deserves a fresh start.

If you’d like to learn more about a specific addiction, problem or behaviour, visit our self assessment page for a range of specific tests and tailored results, or contact our Intake Team to arrange a complimentary and confidential assessment over the phone.