Using various substances to change one’s mood or behavior is something that is generally acceptable in our society. There are millions of people who drink coffee and tea for the stimulating effects of caffeine, and there are many who enjoy social drinking of alcohol.
There are cultural variations of course; there are groups that frown even on the recreational use of spirits. Conversely, there are other groups that habitually use various substances, both legal and illegal, for the mood-altering effects that they give. It is this latter group that generally has problems with chemical dependency.
The line in the sand:
When regular use of these mood-altering substances begins to interfere with normal life and creating changes in behavior that people find revolting, then substance use has gone across the line and become substance abuse, or chemical dependency. Any person has a problem with chemical dependence when they continue using the substance, be it alcohol or drugs, despite the many problems that it causes. These problems cover the full spectrum from occupational to physical, psychological and social. This behavior is a mental problem and needs to be treated.
Chemical dependency; the misuse of alcohol, cigarettes, illegal drugs and prescription drugs is the leading cause of preventable and premature illness, disability and death. During their lifetime, a full 17% of the American population will at some time or another fulfill the criteria of a substance abuser.
The annual cost attributable to alcohol abuse only is approaching $86 billion for treatment and indirect losses, including lost productivity and damage associated with alcohol-induced accidents. Alcohol abuse is an integral part of almost 50% of all traffic accidents and murders every year.
Drug abuse is estimated to cost $58 billion in direct and indirect expense to the community. Cigarettes are one of the leading causes of death by cancer and heart disease. Most smokers will admit their desire to quit, but do not have the will to accomplish the mission. This is especially true for those who started smoking early.
There is a distinction drawn between chemical abuse and chemical dependency. Mental health professionals classify chemical dependents as those who cannot control their use of alcohol and drugs. They are intoxicated or high on a daily basis, or they go on binges. They need the substance for any kind of normal functioning, and they fail to stop no matter how many times they try.
Those who psychiatrists and psychologists consider to be dependent on a substance, in addition to the symptoms mentioned have developed a tolerance for the substance which demands an increase in the amount to satisfy the desired effects. The abuse of heroin, alcohol and amphetamines also will lead to dependence that result in withdrawal symptoms when the user stops.
Chemical dependency can be very debilitating. It is a problem that can be conquered through care and tenacity on the part of the addict. Mayhill Hospital in Denton, TX specialize in helping those who are substance abusers.
