What Is Addiction?
Substance use disorder (SUD) or more commonly known as "Addiction" is a condition in which there is uncontrolled use of a substance despite harmful consequences.
People with SUD have an intense focus on using a certain substance(s) such as alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs, to the point where the person's ability to function in day-to-day life becomes impaired. People keep using the substance even when they know it is causing or will cause problems.
How Is Substance Use Disorder Treated?
Here at Iris Place, we know the first step is recognition of the problem. The recovery process can be delayed when a person lacks awareness of problematic substance use. Although interventions by concerned friends and family often prompt treatment, self-referrals are always welcome and encouraged.
We then conduct a formal assessment of symptoms to identify if a substance use disorder is present and how intense it is. All patients can benefit from treatment, regardless of whether the disorder is mild, moderate, or severe. Unfortunately, many people who meet criteria for a substance use disorder and could benefit from treatment don’t receive help. Our job is to make sure all people struggling with the disorder recieve quality help.
(via https://www.psychiatry.org)
WHAT YOU ABSOLUTELY SHOULDN'T DO
- Don't lecture, threaten, bribe, preach or moralize.
- Don't be a martyr: Avoid emotional appeals that may only increase feelings of guilt and the compulsion to drink or use other drugs.
- Don't cover up, lie or make excuses for his/her behavior.
- Don't assume their responsibilities: taking over their responsibilities protects them from the consequences of their behavior.
- Don't argue when using: avoid arguing with the person when they are using alcohol or drugs; at that point he/she can't have a rational conversation.
- Don't feel guilty or responsible for their behavior; it's not your fault.
- Don't join them: don't try to keep up with them by drinking or using.