Drug and alcohol abuse is defined by the excessive or inappropriate use of either substance. Although, there are no clear-cut definitions for what that means, as people uphold varying beliefs on what constitutes abuse. For example, if a person abuses or misuses alcohol or drugs intending to get intoxicated, many will consider that abuse. But others define abuse by other recurring consequences, like:
Failure to keep up with work or social life
Legal problems related to intoxication
Short-term memory loss/blackouts
Impulsivity
Loss of interest in other activities
When a person begins to use more or more frequently, drug or alcohol abuse can lead to addiction. When someone develops an addiction, it means they become psychologically or chemically dependent on a substance. Possible signs of addiction include:
Feeling unable to control their impulses to use
Withdrawal symptoms (a person may feel ill in the sudden absence of alcohol, for example)
Psychological dependence (for example, if someone abuses a substance to alleviate stress or pain)
Denial or lack of awareness
The signs of abuse or dependency are not always obvious to the user nor their loved ones. Some signs of chemical dependence specifically may be easier to look for, such as:
Requiring the drug(s) or alcohol throughout the day
Cutting ties with non-users and hiding from friends and family
Increased tolerance (needing more to achieve desired altered state)
Heavy use/binging for several hours or days
Dismissal of expressed concern from loved ones
Addiction therapy is an instrumental part of the process of recovery for many who achieve sobriety. Once they do, a therapist can then help them learn skills, such as coping skills, as they regain their health. A therapist specializing in addiction will explore the sources or causes of an individual's addiction and set long-term goals like rebuilding relationships and letting go of guilt.
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