ADDICTION

Recovery from Alcohol and Substance Abuse

Are You Chemically Dependent?

Some people experience problems or negative consequences associated with their alcohol and drug consumption. Often times, these problems indicate symptoms related to chemical dependency or substance abuse.

Take a look at the questions below. If you find yourself getting uncomfortable or notice an urge to rationalize or minimize your answers, it may be a good time to talk with a therapist.

• Do you ever drink or use more than you originally intended?
• Have you ever missed work, school or other commitments because you were using alcohol/drugs, had a hangover or were in withdrawal?
• When using drugs/alcohol, do you ever put yourself in risky situations that could result in harming yourself or others (e.g. driving while under the influence, unprotected sex, criminal activity)?
• Have you ever used alcohol/drugs to cope with uncomfortable feelings or manage stress?
• Do you find you need to use increase the amount you use in order to get the same effect?
• Have you made unsuccessful efforts to decrease or control your alcohol/drug use?

Over 20 million Americans use illicit drugs. For every person who abuses substances, four to seven friends, co-workers, family members and loved ones will be affected; often developing symptoms of depression, anxiety and other stress disorders.

Addiction is a chronic disease. People who have family members with certain mental health disorders or drug/alcohol abuse history are at a higher risk to develop these problems themselves.

Addiction is not a crime that needs to be punished. People who suffer from addiction have an illness and need to get well.

Substance abuse treatment can be very effective for people who seek it. There is hope.