Overcoming any sort of addiction requires constant support, at least in the initial stages. For years, there have been support groups with weekly meetings and buddies to help each other out. These were, and still are, very effective support and information mechanisms for addicts. But, now there are also online resources that allow addicts to literally have support 24 hours a day, whenever it is needed. Following are seven of the best forums to help addicts stay focused on their goals and avoid their source of addiction.
MedHelp – This forum is devoted to those addicted to drugs and alcohol. The site is monitored by medical professionals but discussions and support are provided by peers. There is one forum that addresses specific substance abuse questions and another that is a social forum for addicts.
Ehealth – Ehealth is a site with a wide range of topics and forums for all sorts of medical issues. They have many forums including one for addiction and recovery, as well as one for eating disorders which has some discussions related to food addiction.
Prevention – This is the site of the magazine with the same name. It does have a forum for drug and alcohol addiction, but it appears to have few posts/participants. However, there is a very good forum for food addicts, with lots of discussion and some very helpful support and advice. Food addiction is often overlooked in the addiction community. However, it can be one of the most powerful addictions, because it is widely accepted and because it’s impossible to quit cold turkey. There are not a lot of forums for food addicts, but this one is quite active.
Sober Recovery Community – This is one of the largest forums for those addicted to alcohol and drugs. With over 36,000 recovering drug addicts and alcoholics, it’s certain that you’ll be able to find help and support here.
Cannabis-Weed-Marijuana Addiction Forum – As the name implies, this site is devoted to marijuana addicts. It has lots of members and an active discussion board.
Gambling Addiction Forum – This site is specifically related to gambling addiction. Gambling is an addiction that affects many people, yet there are fewer support resources than for many other addictions. This forum has a lot of members and a very active discussion board.
Addiction Search – Addiction Search is one of the foremost resources on the web for addiction information and support. You’ll find plenty of articles, information on rehab facilities and lists of live support groups. In addition, you’ll find forums specific to every type of drug addiction (including alcohol) plus sexual addiction, food related addictions, gambling addiction and compulsive internet use.
Beating addiction is never easy, and is never over. While the rate of addiction in our society has risen in recent years, so has the number and types of support available to addicts of all kinds. But, it’s likely that no type of support can be more beneficial to an addict than online support because of its immediate availability and its relative anonymity. It’s certain that addicts can use this type of support effectively along with therapy and live group support to help beat addictions once and for all.
Phyllis Zerkle is a freelance writer and likes writing about healthcare career topics, such as how to obtain an online masters in nursing.