I had to hit rock bottom. I overdosed four times at age 19. First time, I had a horrifying NDE where I hallucinated I was waiting in line to go to hell. Second and worst time, I was put in an artificial coma in order to save my brain function. Doctors told my family I probaby wouldn't survive, and if so, I would suffer massive brain damage. I was semi conscious partly for this and obviously couldn't comprehend what was going on, so I start thrashing so much I was put in restraints and covered in bruises for weeks after. Third time, I was locked in a Er room with no medical equipment in order to detox, with only an orderly who was stationed at the door only to ensure I didn't do anything stupid. (TMI alert) I had the runs from the charcoal they gave me and wasn't allowed many bathroom breaks, so I had to lie in the bed I metaphorically made and deal. I hallucinated there was rats clawing at my skin thru the mattress. Last time, when I woke up in the ER room, I was so ashamed that I yanked my IV out and made a break for the exit- I was desperate to escape before my family was notified that I had screwed up again. Five orderlies had to catch and manhandle me back to my room. They weren't gentle; I don't blame theml it. For many advanced addicts I know, hitting rock bottom and barely escaping with your life is the only way they learn. I survived; many friends of mine didn't.