Diagnosing An Addiction and How Comeback society can help you

 

Diagnosing An Addiction

Identifying addiction is like diagnosing any other illness. The patient is examined by a medical professional for symptoms meeting specific, scientific criteria defining the illness in question. One of the best tools for spotting addiction is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association.

The criteria outlined in the DSM are generally accepted and used by professionals to help determine the presence and severity of an SUD. They include:

• Lack of control

The substance is used in larger amounts or over a longer time than the person originally intended. Those with problematic substance use patterns may feel as though someone else is choosing their actions for them, and may find themselves taking steps to acquire and use drugs without an abundance of conscious awareness of how they got there.

• Desire to limit use

Users may want to cut back on use but are unable to do so. They may repeatedly say to others and to themselves that they plan on quitting, and quitting very soon at that. There can be a clear knowing that misuse of substances isn’t the proverbial “right thing to do.”

• Time spent

A considerable amount of time is spent trying to acquire a substance. Those who struggle with addiction may plan out how they are going to acquire their desired substance, spend a long time executing their plan (especially if things go wrong), and then spend time under the effects of the substance — possibly incapacitated by its effects and aftereffects.

• Cravings

The user experiences an intense desire or urge to use the drug. Recurring thoughts of using, or of the feelings that one anticipates after using, may occur at various points throughout the day or night. These can be incredibly unpleasant and distracting.

• Lack of responsibility

Substance use takes priority over work, school, or home obligations. Sick days may be used more often, plans may be made and then canceled at the last minute, and there may be a variety of excuses and rationalizations that are ostensibly concerned with external circumstances but are actually driven by addiction.

• Problems with relationships

Interpersonal relationships are consistently strained from drug use. Friends may become alienated, trying to help but feeling unsure of how to do so. Family members may feel the same way; home life can suffer, divorce may occur, and psychosocial support can dwindle.

• Loss of interest

The user stops engaging in important social or recreational activities in favor of drug use. Much like with depression, there no longer seems to be any reward in participating in hobbies or interests that once held charm.

• Dangerous use

Use continues despite dangerous circumstances. Users may find themselves living in dwellings with other users, potentially sharing drug paraphernalia in a way that may contribute to disease. Intoxicated driving can occur, which can end in death.

• Worsening situations

Use continues despite worsened physical or psychological problems. A downward spiral may take shape; users may see the conditions of their lives deteriorating around them and decide that, given the situation, they may as well continue taking drugs. This only makes matters even more dire.

• Tolerance

Larger amounts of the substance are needed to achieve the desired effects. One or 2 drinks can become 3 or 4, climbing upwards from there. A joint can become a bong, which can turn into a dab. Doses increase as the brain adjusts itself to the repeated stimuli it is being given in an attempt to maintain homeostasis.

• Withdrawal

This can be physical and emotional. Side effects may include anxiety, irritability, nausea, and vomiting. In the case of severe alcoholism, withdrawal can even be fatal; delirium tremens, a condition that can cause hallucinations and seizures, is one hazard an alcohol user that drinks heavily should be careful to guard against.

 

 

Treatments And Therapies

There are thousands of different treatment models and therapy options available for the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. This makes it possible for everyone to find the treatment that works best for them, but it also means that some individuals may end up choosing a rehab where the available therapies are not the best fit. It is very useful to research different types of therapies to determine the different types and styles of treatment that you think might work for you. Rehab programs of ComebackScosiety does not offers 1 or 2 therapy types may not be able to customize care to your specific needs. An ideal program of ComebackSociety will offer a variety of evidence-based therapies to help the patient transition into sobriety and to be able to meet future needs as you continue in your recovery journey. It is important to note that therapists themselves will often help patients determine which therapeutic methods are most beneficial to them.