It’s 2am and you are unable to sleep. You’re stressed about your business, finances, kids, and are questioning if you are able to keep your head above water. In the past, you have used prescription pills to help you sleep; however, you need medications to pick you back up in the mornings to be focused and productive. In the sleepless night, you are tempted to fall into the cycle of sleep aids and stimulants in the morning to help you cope. Prescription Drug Abuse is more common than you think for busy professionals.

Is it okay to use prescription medications to help me manage?

This example is one that we hear daily from our clients. You live in a fast-paced business world with many demands. Your doctors filled the prescriptions in order to help you cope with the stressors in your life. However, the demands of work did not slow down and the anxiety thoughts at night still kept you awake. The stimulants were helpful for a time until you discovered that you could be more productive throughout the day if you took a little more than you were prescribed… That’s when life began to get unmanagable for many clients.

Prescription Abuse

Though the fictitious person in this story was prescribed medications to address his legitimate concerns by his doctor, the person became dependent on the substances for his normal functioning and he eventually started abusing the medication to try to get an edge up on the competition. Prescription drug abuse might not even be on your radar as something to be worried about; however, it is important to stop and consider if you are relying on medications more than on behavioral and relational coping skills.

Consequences in Life for prescription drug abuse

Many times, we see clients lose their sense of purpose in their work, family, and begin to withdraw from their friends and hobbies. This usually occurs when they begin to over-use or abuse their prescription medications. It is tempting to rely on medication for coping with life demands; however, there are many other helpful ways to be healthier in keeping up with the demands of life.

Healthy Coping Skills

Here are some coping skills that busy professionals can use to balance life demands without the use of prescription medication:

1. Time Management: Effective time management techniques, such as prioritizing tasks, setting realistic deadlines, and using tools like calendars and to-do lists, can help professionals stay organized and reduce stress​. Remember that time management is helpful for feeling in control of your schedule, instead of your schedule controlling you.
2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness or meditation can help professionals stay present, reduce anxiety, and improve focus. Techniques such as deep breathing, guided meditations, and mindfulness exercises can be integrated into daily routines​.
3. Physical Exercise: Regular physical activity is a great way to relieve stress and improve overall well-being. Even short bursts of exercise, like a quick walk or stretching, can be beneficial for mental and physical health​.
4. Set Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is crucial. This includes setting specific work hours, turning off work notifications during personal time, and learning to say no to additional commitments when necessary​.
5. Consider Hope: Did you know that Hope is one of the best tools you can utilize to overcome difficult situations? Watch this video to learn about Hope.
6. Seek Social Support: Building a network of supportive colleagues, friends, and family can provide emotional support and practical assistance. Regularly connecting with others and sharing experiences can help professionals feel less isolated and more balanced​.

Counseling for Coping with Stress

These coping strategies can help busy professionals manage their responsibilities more effectively, leading to a healthier work-life balance. If you are currently seeking professional help for medications to cope with your life demands, it might be a good time to seek professional counseling to help. Prescription drug abuse is more common than you realize in our culture.

At The Pursuit, a group of experienced therapists have come together to offer best-in-class counseling services. We prioritize clinical theory, non-judgmental approaches, and effective interventions, treatment plans, and coping skills. We have therapists who specialize in different areas and we strive to find the best match for your unique needs. Are you ready to take the first step in your Pursuit towards a happier, healthier you? We invite you to book your free 20-minute consultation with one of our skilled therapists. Don’t wait; it’s time to invest in your well-being. Simply Book Now to start your Pursuit toward personal growth and positive change today. Keep reading if you want to learn more about Substance Abuse