Did you know:

• Alcohol and drug dependence is not caused by low morals or a lack of willpower.
• Both men and women suffer from alcohol and drug dependence problems.
• Alcohol and drug dependence affects persons from all different backgrounds and social levels.
• Alcohol and drug dependence are major concerns on college campuses across the country.
• Even children, as young as grade school, abuse alcohol and other drugs.
• Alcohol and drug dependence are conditions that can be helped with treatment.

 

How is normal drinking different from alcohol dependence?

Many people use alcohol without becoming dependent on it. It is not uncommon to have a glass of wine with dinner or a couple of drinks on the weekend with friends. Persons who have an occasional drink are not dependent.

 

However, many people are not able to stop at just one drink. Instead, they become more and more preoccupied with having a drink. As a result, their lives begin to suffer. They may begin to have problems at work, get into arguments with friends and family, or experience physical problems. Even after experiencing such problems, the person continues to use alcohol. This can cause even more problems, which can result in the loss of their jobs, families, friends, and health.

 

What causes someone to become alcohol or drug dependent?

Though a great amount of research has been done, no one knows why some people become dependent, while others do not. Some research has shown that alcohol and drug dependence can run in families. While some of the cause may be genetic, another cause may be children learning from watching their parents’ behavior. Other research suggests that persons who are repeatedly exposed to alcohol and drugs, such as persons in high crime areas, may also be more likely to abuse alcohol and drugs. Other research shows that some people appear to have stronger reactions in their bodies to alcohol or drugs.

Though there may be different reasons why people become dependent, it is not simply because of a lack of willpower or goals. Alcohol and drug dependence is a condition that can be helped with treatment. Furthermore, alcohol and drug dependence is a condition that affects persons of all races, genders, and economic levels. Whether a person is dependent on cigarettes, alcohol, cocaine, heroin, or any other drug, he/she could benefit from professional help in order to deal with the many issues associated with alcohol and drug dependence.

 

What are the signs of alcohol and drug dependence?

Family and friends can help identify alcohol and drug dependence in others. The following list provides some common warning signs of alcohol and drug dependence:

• Problems at work including absenteeism, tardiness, and poor work performance.
• An increase in the amount and frequency the alcohol and drug is used.
• Annoyance when others comment on their alcohol and drug use.
• Ignoring responsibilities such as caring for children/pets, and not paying household bills.
• Poor physical appearance or hygiene.
• Forgetting things and misplacing items.
• Legal problems related to alcohol and drug use, such as driving while intoxicated.
• Inability to sleep or being sleepy all the time.

 

In addition, children and teenagers who become dependent on drugs or alcohol may show other signs such as:

• A change in friends or hanging out with a new group.
• Spending a great deal of time alone.
• School problems.
• Long, unexplained periods away from home.
• Getting in trouble with the law.
• Increased arguments with parents and siblings.

 

How do I get help for an alcohol or drug dependence problem?

It is never too late to get help for an alcohol and drug dependence problem. The first step is recognizing and admitting that it has become a problem. Then it is time to seek the help of others. Often, family and friends share the same concerns and can provide a great amount of support. Alcoholics Anonymous and related programs can be very helpful. It is also very important to talk to a professional about your concerns. Talk to your primary care physician or a mental health provider about the effects of alcohol or drugs on your life. They can help you decide what the best treatment is for you and how to access it. The road to recovery may not be easy, but it is possible with the right help.

 

How do I get help for a family member whom I think has an alcohol or drug dependence problem?

Often people with an alcohol or drug problem want help, but don’t know where to turn. Others may not realize the effect their use has had on both their families and their own lives. Sometimes expressing your concern to a loved one may help them to realize the impact alcohol and drug dependence has on their lives. If you do not feel comfortable talking to the person, talk to your primary care physician or a mental health professional about your concerns and the best way to help your family member. They can also recommend reading materials that may help you better understand the condition and how you can help your loved one.

 

Additionally, support groups such as Al–Anon are designed to support people who have loved ones with an alcohol and drug dependence problem. Even if your loved one is not ready to seek help, you can seek help to learn how to deal with alcohol and drug dependence in your family. Al–Anon groups are located throughout the country. Contact telephone numbers for these organizations can be found online or in your local Yellow Pages.

 

Your program is here to help you along the journey of life. No situation is too big or too small. When you and your household members need assistance, reach out anytime and we will help get you on the right path to meet your needs.

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