More often than not, alcohol and drug use disorders start with experimental use in social situations. And for some people, the use becomes more frequent. As time passes, a person may feel the need to drink more or increase the use of a drug to get their desired high, and soon a person may need the alcohol/drug to simply feel “good” or even to be able to “function.”
Alcohol and Drug Abuse symptoms and behaviors include, among others:
- Feeling the need to use the alcohol/drug regularly, which can be daily or multiple times a day
- Having intense urges for the alcohol/drug
- Over time, needing more of the alcohol/drug to get the same effect
- Making certain that you maintain a supply of the alcohol/drug
- Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities
- Doing things you wouldn’t normally do to get the alcohol/drug, such as stealing
- Focusing more and more time and energy on getting and using the alcohol/drug
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the alcohol/drug
- Failed attempts to quit using the alcohol/drug
If you can relate to any of the above symptoms or behaviors, it may be time to consider substance abuse counseling.
As a substance abuse counselor, I will address not only the symptoms of the substance use disorder and the related areas of impaired functioning, I will address the issues that led to this maladaptive behavior as well. Together we’ll structure the time and content for your ongoing recovery.
I believe that 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.