~RM, New Orleans
 
A: This is a very important question because the first step is the most important. But before I answer that, I must ask you to ponder the question "What is creating your misery?" The answer to that question may very well be the key to all the answers you seek.  It is critical to evaluate your life circumstances and identify what things need to change. Sometimes things that we can change, we don't; and sometimes things that we cannot change, we waste time and energy trying to do it.  So take an honest inventory of your life and yourself, and figure out where you need to start.
Now the first step you need to take to stop using is to admit to someone that you believe you have a problem with drugs. Admitting and accepting a problem is always the first step because knowing is half the battle. And believe me, addiction involves a battle with things outside as well as inside of us.  The first part of making any major life change is a change in thinking or a mental shift.  If you continue to think that drugs are the only things that get your mind off whatever is troubling you, then you will continue to use them. You must replace it with something different that you believe will get your mind off your misery.  Once you do that, you will be well on your way to stopping your drug use.  Some other points to ponder are 1) Stay away from other people who use drugs; 2) Find a local NA or AA meeting in your area; 3) Get some literature or books on addiction and drug abuse.  A final solution, if these were not sufficient, would be for you to seek treatment at a Drug & Alcohol treatment facility.  Whatever path you take; know that you cannot do it alone.