Chemical
Dependency
Clinical
Characteristics:
1.
Drug compulsion
- a.
preoccupation with obtaining and using drug of choice
- b.
persistent or periodic cravings for the drug
- c.
compulsive use despite eventual absence of euphoric effect
- d.
fears being without drug of choice
- e.
compulsive use of other drug, including alcohol, in absence of
drug of choice
2.
Loss of ability to control use
- a.
can't refuse drug when offered
- b.
can't self-limit the amount used
- c.
binge patterns of excessive use - especially true with cocaine
and amphetamine
- d.
failed attempts to stop using
3.
Continued use despite adverse consequences
- a.
medical complications: lethargy, insomnia, appetite disturbances,
loss of sex drive, impotence, abscesses and other infections,
nasal or sinus problems.
- b.
psychiatric complications: depression, irritability, paranoia,
suicidal/homicidal ideation or gestures
- c.
social complications: financial, relationships
- d.
legal complications
- e.
employment complications
4.
Denial
- a.
denies that the problem exists
- b.
denies or down plays the seriousness of adverse effects
- c.
acts defensively when asked or confronted about drug use
Note:
Person has no chance of recovery unless he/she can work through
denial. Chemical dependency is a chronic recurring disease.
Relapse
(any episode of drug use) can happen anytime. It is progressive.
A number of relapses increases the risk of re-addiction.
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Copyright © Patty Fleener, M.S.W. All
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