Addictions

Some people who use substances like alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs, become dependent on them. If your substance use is causing problems at work, home, school, or in relationships, but you keep using it, you might have an addiction. You have many options for getting help. 

What are the signs and symptoms of addiction?

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Recognizing addiction involves observing certain patterns and behaviors:

  • Neglecting Responsibilities: Failing to meet obligations at school, work, or home due to substance use.
  • Dangerous Situations: Using substances in risky situations, like driving under the influence or using unclean needles.
  • Relationship Issues: Experiencing conflicts in personal relationships because of substance use.
  • Tolerance: Needing increasing amounts of the substance to achieve the same effects.
  • Withdrawal Relief: Using substances to alleviate withdrawal symptoms like nausea, restlessness, insomnia, depression, sweating, shaking, and anxiety.
  • Loss of Control: Using more of the substance than intended or engaging in activities despite wanting to stop.
  • Substance-Centric Life: Spending a lot of time using, thinking about, obtaining, and recovering from substances.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Abandoning hobbies or activities once enjoyed.
  • Continued Use Despite Harm: Persisting in substance use despite knowing it’s causing significant problems.
  • Legal and Housing Issues: Facing homelessness or legal consequences due to substance-related behaviors.

Seeking Help for Addiction

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If you decide to stop using substances, several support options are available:

  • Counseling: Engage with a mental health professional to understand your triggers, develop safety plans, and access local resources.
  • Daytox Programs: Participate in medically monitored day programs to safely withdraw from substances.
  • Detox Programs: Stay in a short-term residential program, typically five to seven days, to become substance-free and work on personal goals.
  • Long-Term Treatment: Access long-term, intensive residential support to aid in recovery.
  • Support Groups: Join groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) to learn recovery steps and share experiences with others.
  • Financial Assistance: Some programs, such as Agreements with Young Adults (AYA), provide financial support for treatment if you meet eligibility criteria.