|
|
Alcohol and Drug Addiction :
The Mind of an Abuser
There have been
many persons in the alcohol and drug rehabilitation field that have tried to
effectively define what addiction and chemical dependency is. Perhaps the best
definition is a person who continues to use a substance or chemical despite
negative consequences.
Any substance that changes the way
a person thinks or feels could be considered a drug. When most think of drug
abuse, they often think of heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and other "hard
drugs". However, those substances that are deemed "recreational" can be just as
devastating, and sometimes can be more insidious, such as alcohol, marijuana
and prescription drugs.
Whatever the drug of
abuse is, all these substances, including alcohol, have one thing in common. At
the most basic level drugs are toxic to the human mind and body. Basically, "a
drug is a drug is a drug".
Anytime a drug is
consumed by a person, a chemical reaction occurs in the body. There are primary
effects, or desired effects, i.e. the "high". There are also secondary and
tertiary effects, not always as pleasant. In a person whom is innately prone to
an addiction, or has a greater proclivity to abuse, the primary effects are
often exaggerated and will trigger an addictive response in the body, causing a
compulsion to use again, like the often talked about mythic first "fix" of a
heroin addict. In people who may be looking for a "be all, end all" solution to
environmental, social or family problems, this may well be the start of a
journey down the long dwindling spiral of addiction. For as long as the person
maintains their "high" or "buzz", interpersonal conflicts, family skeletons and
past misfortunes all disappear.
When assessing whether or
not someone has a drug or alcohol problem it is best to consult a trained and
qualified rehabilitation professional. This would include admissions
counselors, trained in addiction screening and assessment, certified chemical
dependency counselors and social workers with advanced training in
addictionology. During the initial consultation, the counselor will ask many
questions about the individual's history of use, prior treatments, self-help
groups, sociological background, family background, work history and education
level. In order to accurately assess problem areas, all facets of life should
be taken into account, as alcoholism and addiction effect every area of a
person's life.
If you or a loved
one has and alcohol or drug problem, you can start to help now by filling out
our online
consulatation form or calling (800) 722-5570 to speak with a
qualified admissions counselor.
|