Drug/Alcohol Addiction in Adults
Drug & alcohol addiction in adults is reaching epidemic proportions and it can happen to anyone because all it takes is one point in time when a person unable to cope with what confronts them in the present or historically and the lure of blotting it out with drugs or alcohol becomes an answer for them.
The reasons and traumas are many, dysfunctional upbringing, relationship break up, financial loss, unemployment, bereavement homelessness, sexual or physical abuse as a child – just to mention a few, some are even addicted to antidepressants, painkillers or sleeping pills described by a well-meaning general practitioner (GP). However, more-often-than-not, the GP does not have the resources or time to get to the root cause of the need for these medications, alcohol addiction may be due to heavy drinking within the family unit or peers at an early age.
Whatever the trauma or reason is the addiction can have a devastating impact on the addict, their families and gradually seeps into society – eventually impacts on the structure of a country due to the resources required to deal with the ensuing problems.
Like most social problems, the individuals concerned and their families, tend to go into denial mode about the root cause and the addiction until it is much too late as the damage is already done. Governments and society, in general, are well aware of the social issues that lead to addictions but unfortunately our denials that the country and society has these problems along with the individuals and their families make it difficult to detect in the early stages.
Al-Nasr continues to raise awareness regarding this issue and offers support and counselling to those affected as we believe with continued support and patience those addicted can break the cycle. Others vulnerable to becoming addicted can be prevented from doing so through correct support and counselling with the root cause. The tabs provided will lead you to information regarding addiction and we can offer you confidential support in obtaining help with both preventing or becoming addicted. We are just a phone call away
Substance abuse
Substance abuse refers to the harmful or hazardous use of substance. This is a complex and chronic medical condition characterised by the excessive and harmful use of drugs or alcohol. It involves a pattern of behaviours where an individual continues to consume a substance despite negative consequences, such as health problems, impaired functioning in daily life, strained relationships, legal issues, strained relationships and a decline in overall quality of life.
Substances that are commonly abused include alcohol, illegal drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, marijuana, methamphetamine, prescription medications (when used in ways not prescribed by a doctor) and even certain legal substances like nicotine or inhalants. Substance abuse can have serious physical, psychological and social consequences for individuals and those around them. Substance abuse can develop into addiction, which is characterised by a strong craving for the substance, an inability to control its use and withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped.
Treatment for substance abuse often involves a combination of medical, psychological and social interventions. This can include detoxification (removing the substance from the body), therapy, counselling, support groups and sometimes medication. Early intervention and prevention efforts are important in addressing substance abuse and its associated negative consequences.
Substance use disorders are typically diagnosed based on specific criteria which includes symptoms like:
- Loss of Control: Individuals with substance abuse problems often struggle to control their use of the substance. They may consume more than intended and find it difficult to cut down or quit. Taking larger amounts of the substance over a longer period than intended.
- Craving: There’s a strong desire or craving for the substance, which can become a central focus of the person’s thoughts and actions.
- Neglect of Responsibilities: Substance abuse can lead to neglect of important responsibilities, such as failing to fulfil major obligations at work, school and family obligations due to substance use.
- Negative Consequences: Continued use of the substance despite being aware of experiencing negative consequences such as health problems, legal issues, persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or worsened by substance use and impaired functioning at work or school.
- Tolerance: Where more of the substance is needed to achieve the desired effects or diminished effects are experienced with the same amount of substance. Over time, the person may need increasing amounts of the substance to achieve the desired effects, which can lead to higher levels of consumption.
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control substance use.
- Spending a significant amount of time obtaining, using or recovering from the effects of the substance.
- Continued substance use despite knowing it’s causing or exacerbating physical or psychological problems.
- Giving up or reducing important social, occupational or recreational activities because of substance use.
- Using substances in situations where it’s physically hazardous.
- Withdrawal: When the person reduces or stops using the substance, they may experience withdrawal symptoms that can be both physical and psychological in nature. This often drives them to continue using to avoid these symptoms.
Substance abuse is a serious public health issue and can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including accidents, injuries, mental health disorders and even death in some cases. Treatment options for substance use disorder include behavioural therapies, counselling, medication and support groups among others. Successful recovery often involves a combination of these approaches tailored to an individual’s specific needs and circumstances.
We may be able to support you in making that decision to get help which we understand is a difficult one for everybody and we will listen to you about what you’re going through so give us a call knowing your contact with us will always be totally confidential.