About Drug Addiction
CAT believes knowledge is power. Recognizing the signs of a drug disorder is a crucial step toward recovery. Take a moment to learn about Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and learn more about the treatments we offer.
Dependency
Dependency often refers to the physical and psychological disturbance one experiences when drug use is stopped. This is called withdrawal and often exhibits specific physical signs and symptoms. The withdrawal process, called detoxification, may be uncomfortable and even dangerous. This is why it is important during the detoxification process to seek help from medical professionals who can properly assess and treat the various withdrawal symptoms.
Signs of Addiction
Addiction often refers to the continued drug use despite negative consequences. Usually there are compulsions that contribute to this continued use.
Addiction symptoms can include:
- Continuing to use a drug despite having persistent problems with people in your life
- Continuing to use a drug despite having persistent problems with other important people
- Continuing to use a drug despite knowing that it may create or complicate other physical or psychological problems
- Continuing to use a drug in physically hazardous situations
- Normally important activities are abandoned or replaced due to drug use
- Inability to fully function or complete important obligations as they relate to work, school, or at home
- Failed attempts to stop drug use
While it’s true that dependency and addiction often go hand-in-hand, proper assessment and diagnostic impressions are crucial to determine the severity of one’s condition. CAT uses a multi-disciplinary team to assess and create an individualized treatment plan.
