Understanding Alcohol and Drug Dependency
A substance use disorder is complex a disease in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance (alcohol, prescription or street drugs) despite harmful consequences. People keep using the substance even when they know it is causing or will cause problems.
As much as a person may want to value things in their life (children, marriage, career, health, freedom) over alcohol or drugs, they often find that they cannot stop using without help. If you have developed a dependency, it is not a matter of focus, willpower or morality. You have a disease, as recognized by the American Medical Association in 1956, and that disease must be treated in order to overcome the dependency.
The Warning Signs
While the quantity and frequency of your drug or alcohol use is one factor, your continued use despite the negative impacts on your life is also an important element of evaluating your possible dependency. Ask yourself the 12 questions listed to the right. If alcohol or drug use has negatively impacted your life and you find that you cannot moderate or stop use, then we encourage you to seek professional help.
If drug or alcohol use is causing problems in your life and you find that you cannot stop, call NLAP for help. The call is confidential, and we can help you figure out a path forward.
Treating Alcohol and Drug Disorders
The good news is that alcohol and drug use disorders are treatable. While individuals find they might be able to stop on their own for short periods of time, often they require professional help to achieve long term success in dealing with substance use disorders. NLAP will be with you every step of the process from assessment, to reviewing treatment options and long-term recovery.
NLAP can help identify experienced treatment providers, review insurance requirements with you and answer your questions throughout this treatment process.
There is a high correlation between untreated alcohol disorders and attorney disciplinary complaints. Its not too late to ask for help.
| | 12 Questions to Ask Yourself:
1. Have you experienced memory loss while drinking?
2. Are you frequently unable to control the amount you drink once you start?
3. Have people close to you expressed a concern about your drinking?
4. Do you find a need to hide the amount or frequency that you are drinking?
5. Has drinking caused problems in relationships/finances/work/school?
6. Have you tried and been unsuccessful in attempts to cut back or control your drinking?
7. Have you had a drop in performance at school/work or absences as a result of drinking?
8. Have you had feelings of guilt, shame or remorse following alcohol use?
9. Have you had to apologize for things you did while drinking?
10. Has a doctor ever recommended that you curtail your drinking?
11. Have you experienced sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts?
12. Have you ever neglected your work or family responsibilities because of drinking?
If you find that drugs or alcohol are interfering with your personal or professional life, make a confidential call to NLAP at (402) 475-6527.
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