Substance Abuse









How much is “too much?”



For men, more than four drinks on one occasion or more than 14 drinks weekly is commonly considered at-risk drinking.
For women, more than three drinks on one occasion or more than seven drinks weekly is commonly considered at-risk drinking.
What is alcoholism?




What is drug addiction?


Genetics – Hereditary factors may account for up to 60% of a person’s propensity to become addicted.
Other brain illnesses – Individuals with depression or bipolar disorder face a significantly increased risk of addiction.
Environment – A person’s family life and social interactions can be contributing factors. If exposed to drug or alcohol abuse of a parent or older sibling as a child an individual is at greater risk of developing their own drug problem as an adult. The same is true of people who are exposed to drug use by friends or peers in adolescence.
Age of first use – Research also indicates that the earlier a person begins to use drugs, the more likely their use will progress to abuse.
Method of use – Even the way a person’ uses drugs can have an impact on their vulnerability to developing an addiction. For example, drugs that are injected or smoked impact the brain within seconds, and their initial impact can fade quickly. Scientists believe this “roller coaster” effect produces greater risk of subsequent drug abuse by creating a constant cycle of trying to bring back the initial pleasure and avoid the subsequent discomfort, or by changing gene expression more dramatically.



Using drugs or drinking frequently to the point of intoxication or impaired function
Engaging in binge drinking, which for average adults is defined as consuming five+ drinks (for men) or four+ drinks (for women) in a short period of time
Drinking alcohol or drugs to the point of “black-out”
Using drugs or alcohol to the point of interference with functioning at home or work
Using drugs or alcohol despite dangerous consequences (such as driving while intoxicated)
Using drugs or alcohol despite recurrent legal or interpersonal consequences (such as arrest or domestic violence)

Preoccupation with obtaining or using alcohol or drugs
Consuming more alcohol or drugs than intended
Building a tolerance for alcohol or drugs – requiring increasing amounts of the substance to achieve the desired effect
Giving up other activities because they might interfere with the ability to drink or use drugs
Experiencing a sense of shame or guilt, or a feeling of being flawed or damaged



Intensive hospital treatment, either inpatient or outpatient, may be recommended to break the cycle of dependence.
Individual or group psychotherapy may also be helpful.
Many people find 12-step groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous to be extremely beneficial in overcoming substance abuse and living in recovery.
There are some medications available to help patients overcome the symptoms of substance dependence. Most often, medications are used in combination with behavioral therapy to yield the best results.