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Drug and Alcohol Information- Disease Progression -Early StagesIn the early stage of chemical dependency, the individual uses mood-altering drugs to achieve a desired level of euphoria or to relieve stress or other uncomfortable feelings or moods. The individual develops tolerance for alcohol or drugs and must drink or use larger amounts to achieve the same effect that was once possible with smaller amounts. The individual often has difficulty controlling the amount of use and may have personal behavior problems associated with use. Changes in thinking occur to defend inappropriate behavior, to avoid taking responsibility for problems associated with use, and to justify continued use. This is referred to as denial.More Information... Increased FrequencyAs the frequency of alcohol or drug use increases , changes in brain chemistry occur as the brain accommodates to addictive substances. This change in brain chemistry results in tolerance. Negative consequences associated with the abuse of substances increase. Denial systems also increase, and the individual becomes obsessed with alcohol or drugs and has cravings to use at any cost. Depending on the addictive substance, physical dependency may be present, resulting in uncomfortable or painful withdrawal symptoms if the individual abruptly stops using.More Information... End StageIn the end stage of chemical dependency, all the problems associated with substance use continue, but they are at higher levels of severity. Serious physical, psychological, and behavior problems occur. Alcohol and/or drug related problems often cause premature death.More Information... |
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