If you or a loved one is experiencing drug addiction, also known as substance use disorder, you may feel like it is impossible to change or you may not notice you have a problem.
Drug addiction is a difficult habit to break. The immediate effects may first seem to be positive (feeling good, being more confident, forgetting about problems, etc.), and you may feel that you must have the substance to get through the day. However, the long-term consequences of drug addiction are serious, harmful, and worsen over time.
If you are dependent on an illegal or legal (remember, alcohol and nicotine are legal substances) drug or medication and it is causing problems to your health, personal life, work life, or relationships, it is time to seek help. If you feel like you have lost control, it is time to seek help.
Some of the negative consequences of substance use disorder can include:
- Physical dependence resulting in withdrawal symptoms
- Changes to the brain structure and chemistry
- Neglecting appearance and hygiene
- Problems at school or work; losing your job, being expelled, poor performance
- Homelessness
- Disease
- Injuries while under the influence
- Irritability, anxiety, or depression
- Hopelessness, feelings of emptiness
- Lack of energy or motivation
- Unclear thinking
- Blackouts
- Negative impact on relationships (family, spouse, friends, colleagues, etc.)
- Financial difficulties due to spending money on the addictive substance rather than essentials
- Legal problems
- Loss of control
- Violent behaviour
- Death from overdose or while under the influence
Many people who suffer from drug addiction do not realize their habit is out of control and that they have a serious problem. If you or a loved one is exhibiting these symptoms in relation to substance use, it’s essential to get help.
LCC Treats Drug Addiction
Your LCC psychotherapist can:
- Help you to understand the underlying trauma that may have led to behaviours that facilitated the addiction
- Help you develop ways to cope
- Suggest strategies to avoid drugs and prevent relapse
- Offer suggestions on how to deal with a relapse if it occurs
- Talk about issues regarding your job, legal problems, and relationships with family and friends
- Include family members, with your permission, to help them develop better communication skills and be supportive
Our caring counsellors and therapists are experienced in helping drug addicts. With effective treatment and counselling, drug addiction does not have to rule your decisions and your life.
Your counsellor and therapist will support you as you develop and strive toward treatment targets by promoting real change. In time, you can achieve a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle that is not controlled by destructive behaviours and substances.
Contact Us
If you think you are experiencing drug addiction, we invite you to contact us for a confidential and complimentary 15 minute consultation. We will assess your needs, understand your concerns, and match you with the right therapist. Call 905-231-2273 or submit the form on the right of this page.