Stages of Substance Abuse

The following are stages of substance abuse and dependence.  Contrary to social myths, any individual can seek help at any stage; they do not necessarily need to “hit bottom” in order seek treatment.

Experimentation
Substance abuse begins with the voluntary use of alcohol or other drugs.  Frequently, the individual is experimenting because he or she may be escaping a problem, or may be succumbing to social pressure.   For example, a salesman may take clients out for drinks as part of entertainment in order to get an account.  Or, a woman undergoing through a divorce may start drinking.  A teenager may try smoking marijuana or huff inhalants to belong to the “cool” group.  Or a husband takes his wife’s prescription to alleviate a back problem.   In these cases, it appears that substances have solved the problem.  And so, the individual moves on to regular use of the substance.

Regular Use
There are those who will be in this stage of regular use of the substance without any problems, and will probably be able to stop themselves from using the substance whenever they want.  However, others will escalate to the next stage, risky use.

Risky Use
Risky use is when the individual engages in behavior that puts his or other people’s health and safety at risk.  For instance, a person who is “stoned” or is under the influence of alcohol and chooses to drive belongs in this stage.  Whether or not one moves on to risky use will vary among individuals.  In addition, it is difficult to judge what risky behavior is since people may have different definition for it.  For example, unprotected sex while being “high” may be risky to some but not to others.  In any case, risky use is a slippery slope and can easily lead to the dependence.

Abuse
Substance abuse is characterized by repeated use of the drug that leads to the inability of the person to fulfill personal, social, school or work responsibilities; repeated use of the substance that is hazardous to one’s physical safety such as drinking while intoxicated; and / or repeated legal problems due to using drugs.
 
Dependence
The last phase of this spectrum is substance dependence or addiction.  This stage is characterized by an uncontrollable compulsion to use the substance, craving, tolerance, persistent use of the substance despite negative effects on and / or jeopardizing one’s health, relationships, school, or job, and withdrawal symptoms if the use is stopped.  These symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, sweatiness, tremors, seizures, shaking and anxiety.   

Addiction is a chronic and long-standing condition and the road to recovery is also long, and relapses common. Research has shown that drugs not only affect the brain’s normal functioning but also has long-term effects on its metabolism and activity.  A point is reached where in abuse becomes an addiction, a relapsing illness wherein the individual cannot stop by themselves.  Treatment becomes necessary for the person to stop his or her compulsive behavior. 

Addiction is a progressive disease, meaning if left untreated, it will get worse and can be life-threatening.  But, it can be treated.  If you think you have a problem with using substances, please call your doctor or your health care provider. 

Treatment can help.  Embark on your journey to better living and brighter horizons.