Frequently Asked Questions

Addiction (often referred to as a Substance Use Disorder) is a chronic disease of the brain characterized by compulsive substance use despite negative consequences. It is considered a disease because the structure and functioning of the brain are actually changed because of substance use. These changes can have long-lasting, devastating effects, impacting the behavior of the addicted person and often harming his/her relationships with others.

While those with substance-related problems do make the initial decision to start using, the addictive substance soon takes over. Alcohol and drugs alter how the brain transmits information, and they can impair a persons ability to remember, make decisions and have normal emotional responses. Unfortunately, simply removing the substance is not enough to overcome the damage. Treatment is needed. For more information on the basics of addiction, go to www.drugabuse.gov

Addiction should be viewed just like chronic diseases of other parts of the body, such as heart disease or asthma. Approaching addiction like any other medical condition can help those who are in need of recovery and their families to move past the denial, anger, guilt and disappointment that can undermine treatment and recovery. Viewing addiction as a disease can also help parents and other loved ones of individuals with substance-related problems address how the issue has affected their own lives, including the negative impact it may have had on their own relationships, work performance, health and well-being.

Unlike families with loved ones who suffer from other medical conditions, such as diabetes or cancer, if your loved one has a substance-related problem, you're unlikely to seek support from your community. You may feel embarrassed by the illness or even blame yourself for its onset. Because of the stigma attached to addiction, you might not even confide in your extended family or closest friends. But you shouldn't feel ashamed. You are not alone.

An assessment by a healthcare professional is the only way to truly diagnose a substance use disorder, but common warning signs of addiction include:

• Moodiness, irritability, anger, aggressive behavior
• Depression
• Incoherence, forgetfulness, slurred speech
• Clumsiness, poor balance, lack of coordination
• Rapid speech, uncharacteristic talkativeness, restlessness
• Irresponsibility, recklessness, bad judgement
• Secrecy
• Thefts or sudden requests for money
• Decreased motivation and lack of interest in former activities
• New friends replace old friends
• Problems at school, such as discipline issues, poor grades