Drug addiction can be part of a larger issue such as depression, or part of a more complex web of issues.  Pursuit of Happiness counselors help patients to find out what the root problems are, and attack addiction in a way so that it will not return.

 

Have you experienced any of the following in the last 12 months?

 

Do you feel the need to markedly increase the amount of drug or alcohol use in order to achieve intoxication or the desired effect?

Do you experience a markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of the drug or alcohol?

Do you experience physical withdrawal symptoms if you do not use the substance?

Do you use the drugs or alcohol to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms?

Do you use the substance in larger amounts of for longer periods of time than intended?

Do you feel a persistent desire to cut down or control the substance use that has been unsuccessful?

Do you spend a great deal of time in activities necessary to obtain the substance, use the substance, or recover from its effects?

Do you give up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of substance use?

Do you continue to use the substance in spite of knowledge or having persistent or recurrent physiological or psychological problems that are likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the substance?

 

The best time for change is NOW.  The best time to start is NOW.  The longer you wait, the more difficult it will be to stop, not to mention the physical toll this condition will take on your body.  The cycle of emotional pain, damage to the psyche, and shame is a difficult pattern to break, but we are here to help.

 

If you or someone you love suffers from substance abuse/dependence, please give us a call.