Alcohol and Substance Abuse

Problem drinking and drug abuse constitute serious health and mental health problems whose toll in personal misery, family conflict, lost productivity, absenteeism, disease and death are immense. Estimates suggests that about 12% of the adult population will suffer from severe alcohol or drug problems at any time, with family, friends and coworkers feeling the effects as well.

The APA (American Psychiatric Association) defines substance abuse disorders (including alcohol dependence) through a variety of criteria that share a common core of symptoms, including:

• substance taken in larger amounts, or over a long period of time, than intended
• unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance abuse
• important activities given up or reduced because of use
• continued use despite problems caused or worsened by substance abuse

In the case of physical dependence, these problems are also accompanied by:

• development of tolerance ( increasing amount of the substance are needed to achieve the desired effect)
• withdrawal symptoms

If physical symptoms are present, the problem may be called an addiction; although one can also have serious physical, social or legal consequences associated with substance abuse without physical addiction.

Alcohol and drug problems are treatable conditions, and a wide variety of therapeutic choices are available. For users with physical dependence, detoxification is almost always required to prevent or manage withdrawal, which can be medically dangerous. Inpatient and outpatient treatment, both group and individual, as well as self-help groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous are widely available. A few medications have also demonstrated promise in reducing cravings and preventing relapse. An evaluation with a treatment professional can help determine the most effective course of therapy, and is always a recommended first step in addressing alcohol or drug problems.

For more information, please consult the resources and links below:

Substance Abuse Self Assessment Questionnaire

Alcoholics Anonymous
www.alcoholics-anonymous.org

Narcotics Anonymous
www.narcotics-anonymous.org