Social networking sites do, however, allow people to isolate themselves, making it easier to hide their addiction. When a person is not seeing or talking with someone face to face, but rather is using the printed word, it is easy to disguise even the use of a drug. As long as they don’t come out and say that they are drinking or taking drugs, no one else is going to know.
And, because some people actually stay on social networking sites for hours, often behind a closed door, family members may not be aware of how much a person is drinking, if it is an alcoholic beverage, or if there are pills or other drugs in the room also. This can make it hard for them to determine just how bad the problem really is.
Eventually, however, an addiction is going to come to light one way or another. When it does, social networking sites can actually contribute to addiction treatment. Many churches and community organizations are beginning to take advantage of social networking sites to make their presence known to a wider audience. When such institutions take advantage of these very popular mediums, they can offer information on addiction recovery programs that are available through them or other sources.
Those who use social networking sites can also share their experiences with others, if they are willing about the drug addiction treatment they received through various facilities. In this way, those who need addiction treatment can find out information about recovery programs and how well they work.
Those who do not use social networking sites still have a means of obtaining information. By logging on to http://www.centerforaddiction.org/ or calling 1-800-559-9503, they can receive information on addiction treatment available in their area.
