ASK JOE:
Does heavy use of alcohol and drugs create addiction?
Q: Does heavy use of alcohol and drugs create addiction?
A: Sometimes.
People who use alcohol and drugs in large quantities over time may become addicted to them. But this is not always the case. Only a percentage of users will become dependent. For many people, this period of heavy usage can be just a phase.
Social and recreational alcohol and drug use lead some people to abusive use. During this period, there may be consequences, such as a DUI, and for many, these consequences will be enough to inspire them to quit or control their use. It is common to see college students, for example, drinking and using drugs while in school, but most will later become social drinkers capable of moderating their use.
For others, even multiple consequences will not have the same effect, and they will continue to use until they are drug-dependent or addicted. No matter what the case, abusive use needs to be considered a warning sign. Family intervention should be discussed and possibly pursued, earlier rather than later.
SEE BELOW FOR MORE “ASK JOE”
This “Q & A with Joe Herzanek” is excerpted from
Part 5 of “Why Don’t They Just Quit? What families and friends need to know about addiction and recovery.“
> Audio Book CD, MP3 (NEW!)
> Kindle
> Audible Audio Download (LISTEN TO 4 MIN. SAMPLE)
RESOURCES:
Addiction Recovery Resources for Families of Substance Abusers, Addicts and Alcoholics
MORE ASK JOE:
> Do you have to stop seeing all your old friends in order to recover?
> What is a Pink Cloud? What does the term “pink cloud” mean?
> If someone can stop using drugs or alcohol for weeks at a time, they “aren’t an addict—correct?
>Chronic Pain Management & Pain Pill Addiction: What to do?
>How can I know if my addicted friend or loved one is telling the truth?
>”I need help because I’m not able to deal with my live-in Fiance’s need to get drunk every night.”
>Should my husband “back off?”
>Gambling vs. Drug Addiction? What is your opinion?
>How can I tell if someone is an addict/alcoholic or just a heavy user?
>What is Methadone? What is Harm Reduction?
RELATED:
> Self-Tests: Alcohol and Drug Addiction
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