Drug and Alcohol Intervention

The continued use of drugs or alcohol may lead to drug addiction or alcohol addiction.

Once an addict it is impossible to stop use of drugs. It is therefore of importance that seeks the services of a drug and alcohol intervention. The overuse or abuse of alcohol (alcoholism) or other drugs is called substance abuse. It is common and costly. It can cause or worsen many medical problems and destroy families and lives.

Drug abuse includes the use of illegal drugs, such as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, or other “street drugs”; and the abuse of legal prescription and nonprescription drugs. Some people turn to drugs as a way to get a “high” or to relieve stress and emotional problems.

“Drug dependence or addiction occurs when you develop a physical or psychological “need” for a drug.”
Recovery is the time of personal fulfillment and growth just being happywith yourself.
You are unable to control your use of a drug despite the negative effects it may have on your life. You may not be aware that you have become dependent on a drug until you try to stop taking it. Drug withdrawal can cause uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous symptoms. The usual treatment is to gradually reduce the dose of the drug until it can be stopped completely.

Long-term heavy drinking damages the liver, nervous system, heart, and brain. It also causes high blood pressure, stomach problems, medication interactions, sexual problems, osteoporosis, and cancer. Alcohol abuse can also lead to violence, accidents, social isolation, and difficulties at work and home.

* Recovery occurs over time; it is not a single moment in time.

It is a constantly evolving period that requires work to maintain. Recovery is a new beginning, and can be a time of great personal fulfillment and growth for people in recovery and their families. Signs of increasing health and wellness are that the person with the addiction improves physically and emotionally and in his or her relationship with others.

Recovery requires that the person with the addiction repair relationships damaged through years of drinking and taking drugs. There may be feelings of shame and self-hatred. The person may have to give up the “addict mentality” that is suspicious, secretive, manipulative, and self-centered.

* People in recovery abstain from substance use.

By doing so, they regain their physical health and emotional well-being. Once again, they are able to enjoy everyday activities with energy, enthusiasm, optimism, and confidence. Over time, people will return to being more loving spouses, happier kids, effective parents, good neighbors, and dedicated employees.

Author: National Addiction Resources

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