Substance Use Disorders
Understanding Addiction's Many Forms
Addiction appears in forms like abuse, dependency, and self-medication, affecting daily life. Many trapped in addiction want to escape, but quitting is often challenging. They live in survival mode, seeking one fix after another, which underscores their difficulties and the urgent need for support.
It's Time to Change Your Perspective
Throughout history, we have employed derogatory and unkind labels to refer to individuals struggling with addiction: drunks, junkies, druggies, potheads, and burnouts. These terms are not just harsh but completely lack compassion, failing to reflect how those with alcohol or substance use disorders view themselves or their authentic identities.
Many individuals facing addiction often find themselves thinking things like:
- “I don’t fit that crowd; those labels aren’t mine.”
- “I drink daily but am perfectly fine.”
- “I take two pills in the evening to unwind, I promise.”
- “I only drink on weekends.”
- “I use weed to take the edge off.”
- “I’m not as bad as that other person.”
Symptoms of Addiction
There are as many paths to addiction as there are people addicted. Every case is different, but there are signs and symptoms common to all cases of addiction which, when present, mean it’s time to take action.
Physical Signs
- Unexplained accidents or injuries
- Shaking hands or other physical tremors
- Neglect of appearance and hygiene
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Slurred or agitated speech
- Clammy palms
- Red, watery eyes
- Dilated pupils
- Poor physical coordination
- Unusual odors on breath, body, or clothes
- Needle marks on arms, legs, or feet
Behavioral Signs
- Emotional instability
- Significant personality changes
- Decline in work or academic performance
- Increased anger, resentment, and sensitivity
- Decreased ability to focus
- Failure to keep commitments
- Apathy
- Stealing
- Lying
- Loss of interest in lifelong hobbies or passions
- Secretive activity/hiding things
