Substance abuse is an increasingly problematic addiction that is prevalent among young adults. The effects of drug and alcohol addiction can be detrimental, not only hurting the user, but also those that love and care for the person as well. For an addict, getting help is essential to a normal, healthy lifestyle. However, many people don´t know how to recognize their alcohol and drug addictions, thus rejecting any help that may present itself.
The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines addiction as the “compulsive need for and use of a habit forming substance...” Both alcohol and drugs are known to carry highly addictive qualities than can compel a person to feel a need for the substance. The addiction quickly becomes stronger as it is fed, leading to substance abuse or drinking on a regular basis.
Addicted to Alcohol
For those addicted to alcohol, the key to diagnosis lies within the drinker himself. Peers and family can have a difficult time defining the problem as addiction because there are no outward signs of a problem. Though the alcoholic will usually demonstrate a lifestyle conducive to partying or social drinking, some people in the more developed stages of alcoholism may hide their habit in fear of being caught. Many people find it difficult to define the difference between a person having a good time, and an addicted alcoholic. Most alcoholics will show some physical signs, including slurred speech, droopy or bright eyes, altered mood and grogginess.
Identify Drug Addiction
Drug use is another addiction that can get out of hand quickly. Drug addiction is not as easy to identify as it once was, mostly due to the increase in medical prescriptions being abused. Illegal drugs tend to have a negative effect on the physiological appearance of a person. Examples of these types of drugs include cocaine, heroine, and methamphetamines. Addiction to prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications can occur when a person begins to use pain killers, sleeping pills, or other mood altering drugs to function in everyday activities. This type of activity is growing increasingly popular among students, resulting in drug addiction at a very young age, sometimes the result of a legal prescription. Signs of drug addiction can include weight loss, extreme behavior, broken teeth, scabs, constant sniffing, lack of appetite, bloodshot eyes, droopy eyes, and slurred speech.
For a person wondering if he or she is an addict, the question to ask oneself is “Does my drinking or drug use affect my everyday life, or is it a disruption to the completion and quality of daily activities?” If one finds that alcohol or drugs are indeed a disturbance to daily functionality, then he or she can assuredly assume that there is an addiction that needs to be treated.
Overcome Addiction Through Treatment Centers, Support Groups and Rehab
The steps to treatment begin with the addict admitting that there is a problem and developing a desire to overcome addiction. Once this step has been taken, one should seek professional attention, either in a group or individual setting. Some addicts choose both one on one counseling and group therapy, due to the profound benefits that come from each setting. Though intentions for help may be good, most studies have found that addicts who drop out of recovery programs too early tend to be unsuccessful in their attempts to overcome addiction. It is vital that full program completion is attained, and accountability initiated upon exit of addiction therapy.
Resources:
Helpguide.org: Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse
Helpguide.org: Drug Abuse and Addicition
Allison Westbrook - Allison Westbrook is a professional freelance writer that is passionate about bringing quality and relevance to an audience of readers. ...
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