Addictions can be the abuse and dependence of a substance, like a drug, tobacco, or alcohol. An addiction can also be a process addiction which is a compulsion to a behavior, like overeating, sex or gambling. More often than not, substance use disorders start with experimental use of a substance in social situations. And for some people, the use becomes more frequent. As time passes, a person may feel the need to use more of a drug to get their desired high, and soon a person may need the drug to simply feel “good.”
Substance addiction symptoms and behaviors include, among others:
- Feeling the need to use the drug or alcohol regularly, which can be daily or multiple times a day
- Having intense urges for the substance
- Over time, needing more of the alcohol or drug to get the same effect
- Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug
- Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities
- Doing things you wouldn’t normally do to get the drug, such as stealing
- Focusing more and more time and energy on getting and using the substance
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug or alcohol
- Failed attempts to quit using the substance
Process addictions, like compulsive overeating, computer use, or skin picking, can have some of the same attributes. If you can relate to any of the above symptoms or behaviors, it may be time to consider addiction counseling.
We will address the symptoms of your addiction and the related areas of impaired functioning, and together we’ll structure the time and content of your ongoing recovery, whether that looks like abstinence or harm reduction.
There are many paths to successful recovery that will work with your goals and desires and ensure you can make the life changes you want to make.
Contact us today.