Substance Abuse and Addiction
What is Addiction?
What is Substance Addiction?
Substance dependence is the medical term used to describe abuse of drugs, alcohol, or chemicals that continues even when significant problems related to their use have developed. Signs of dependence include:
Tolerance to or need for increased amounts of the drug to get an effect
Withdrawal symptoms from stopping or decreasing the addiction
Spending a lot of time to get, use, and recover from the effects of using drugs
Withdrawal from social and recreational activities
Continued use of the drug even though you are aware of the physical, psychological, and family/social problems that are caused by your ongoing drug abuse
What is Behavioral Addiction?
Behavioral addiction occurs when someone becomes addicted to a rewarding behavior that does not involve an addictive substance. Sometimes referred to as behavioral addictions or compulsive behaviors, process addictions involve compulsion to perform an action despite negative consequences. In this way people can suffer from dependence on certain processes — they are reliant upon and/or controlled by the addiction as their primary way of dealing with life. Below are common process addictions:
Gambling
Sex
Work
Spending or compulsive buying
Internet or Gaming
Eating
Signs and Symptoms
Individuals who struggle with addiction often try to conceal symptoms and downplay the problem. Here is a list of warning signs to be aware of so you can monitor behaviors of yourself, friends, and family:
Bloodshot eyes, smaller or larger pupils than normal
Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
Sudden weight loss or weight gain
Deterioration of physical appearance, personal grooming habits
Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing
Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination
Drop in attendance and performance at work or school
Unexplained financial problems; borrowing or stealing
Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors
Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies
Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities)
Sudden mood swings, change of attitude, or personality changes.
Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness
Lack of motivation; appears lethargic or "spaced out"
Appears fearful, anxious, or paranoid
Local Help and Support
LifeBridge of Chattanooga Physician Health Initiative
CIGNA Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for UT GME Residents/Fellows Residents
Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) helps individuals who wish to stop or control alcohol consumption.
Al-Anon supports individuals affected family members or friends consumed by alcohol usage.
Narcotics Anonymous (N.A.) assists individuals who wish to stop abusing prescription or illegal drugs.
NAR-Anon for Family supports individuals affected by someone using and abusing drugs.