The Stages of Drug Addiction
The road to addiction is different for
every person. Some people take their time while others go from zero to 60 in a
short period of time. No matter how long your journey is, most rehabilitation
counsellors agree that there are four main stages of drug addiction:
experimentation, regular use, risky use/abuse, and drug addiction and
dependency. Not everyone in the first two stages will develop a drug
addiction, but individuals in the third stage of drug abuse are very likely to
progress into full-blown addicts. Here’s a closer look at the four main stages
of drug addiction.
Stage 1: Experimentation
Bishop of Meath Tom Deeniham. Drug Feuds Are The Result of Social Drug Abuse In Ireland. Screen Grab Photo. |
Experimentation is defined as the
voluntary use of drugs without experiencing any negative social or legal
consequences. For many, experimenting may occur once or several times as a way
to “start to become a problem when it moves into the next stage of addiction:
regular use- have fun” or even to help the individual cope with a problem. For
many, experimentation can occur without any desire to continue using the drug.
For others, it can result in persistent abuse leading to dependency.
Stage 2: Regular Use
Some people will be able to enter the
stage of regular use without developing a dependence or addiction. These people
will be able to stop the drug use on their own. The problem with regular use is
that the risk for substance abuse greatly increases during this stage. It also
increases risky behaviours such as driving under the influence, unexplained
violence, and symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Stage 3: Risky Use/Abuse
The line between regular use and risky
use/abuse is a very thin one- but is usually defined as continued use of drugs
in- spite of severe social and legal consequences. What might have begun as a
temporary form of escape can quickly lead to more serious problems. This is the
stage where the warning signs of addiction will begin to appear: craving,
preoccupation with the drug, and symptoms of depression, irritability and
fatigue if the drug is not used.
Stage 4: Drug Addiction and Dependency
Physical dependence on a drug is often
intertwined with addiction. Characteristics of dependence and drug addiction
include withdrawal symptoms and compulsive use of the drug despite severe
negative consequences to his or her relationships, physical and mental health,
personal finances, job security and criminal record.
Drug Addiction Treatment
No matter which stage of drug use you’re
in, it’s important to seek help right away, especially if you’ve reached the
stage where you are unable to stop using drugs on your own. Addiction is a
progressive illness that, if left untreated, only gets worse. Thankfully,
addiction is also a treatable illness. There are many forms of drug addiction treatment,
including inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, 12-Step programs and holistic
therapies.
One thing to consider when choosing a
drug addiction program is if it offers dual diagnosis treatment. Oftentimes a
person will develop a drug addiction after trying to self-medicate symptoms of
a mental illness. Other times symptoms of mental illness, such as depression
and anxiety, will develop due to chronic drug use. The result is a never-ending
cycle that is difficult to break without treating both the drug addiction and
the mental illness. Proper assessment of a dual diagnosis can help you in any
stage of drug use and addiction.
SOURCE:
Look for Warning Signs of Teen and Young Adult Drug Use
https://drugfree.org/article/look-for-warning-signs
Figuring out if your child is using drugs or alcohol
can be challenging. Many of the signs and symptoms are, at times, typical teen
or young adult behaviour. Many are also symptoms of mental health issues,
including depression or anxiety disorders. Explore our parent Drug Guide for even
more substance-specific warning signs.
ENDS:
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