Addictions

By Mona M. Budden, M.S.W., S.A.P, R.S.W

By general definition, addiction refers to the repeated use of a substance or behavior, despite harmful consequences or adverse effects. These substances or behaviors include, but not limited to, alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, gambling, compulsive sexual behaviors, abuse of prescribed and non-prescribed drugs. Harmful consequences may include loss of ones self-respect, relationships, job, friends, and physical, spiritual, and emotional health.
Addiction can destroy ones life, including the lives of others living with them.

On a positive note, there is help; there is hope. If you think you or a family member may have a problem, you probably do. Recognition is the first step. The second is to seek change. While this can be a difficult step, you are worth the effort! Some people can affect change in their own lives. Others require the help and support of family, friends, and professional intervention, in order to begin to lead a more satisfying life. The benefit of seeking change is recovery and it is important to remember that recovery takes time.
Today could be the first day towards a life without addictive substances or behaviors.
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions on how to move towards a more positive and satisfying life or to help someone you care about.

Q. What is the first step in helping someone that may be addicted/dependent to alcohol, other drugs, or gambling?
A. The first step is to encourage and support assessment, evaluation, and treatment. This may also include services for the non-addicted family member. Accurate assessment of persons with an addictions problem is a vital step to the treatment process. With assessment, treatment options, and planning can occur.

Q. What are the early signs that a person may be addicted?
A. Generally there are common illusions or rationalizations: “I can quit anytime; I can handle it; It makes me calm; I am funny when I drink; It won’t happen again; It’s only a few more dollars”. Other warning signs include frequent use of a substance, denial, physical changes, mood swings, sickness, unexplained absences and lies.

Q. What can the person expect from a professional counseling service?
A. An initial assessment would include personal interviews. These interviews evaluate subjective experiences with the addictive behavior or drug, its impact on ones life, harmful consequences commitment levels, readiness to change, etc. Standardized screening, and clinical tools to measure severity levels and degree of dependency would also be completed. Other areas of assessment may include anxiety, depression and medical intervention history.
The courage and motivation to seek help would be highlighted as good predictors for change.

Q. What resources are available for help in dealing with addictions?
A. Addiction resources include:
• Private-practice addiction counselors who are specifically trained and competent to assess and treat addictions.
• Local addiction agencies run by the provincial government offer a wide range of outpatient and inpatient support, and treatment services.
• Self-help groups such as 12-step programs are widely available, including AA, N.A, G.A, O.A.
• Medical consultation with ones family doctor could be the gateway to further treatment services. Ask for a list of resources.
• Most workplaces offer an Employee Assistance Program where counseling services are covered, or provide group benefits that may include coverage for professional counseling, and treatment services.
• Addictions Program at the Waterford Hospital which is designed for those with dual-diagnosis. i.e. addiction plus a mental health diagnosis. Telephone 709-777-3330/3331

For further information please contact Mona Budden
at 722-8661

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