ALCOHOL AND DRUG DEPENDENCE
PROBLEM
Dependence on alcohol or drugs is a disease with signs and symptoms and a progressive course that requires treatment, just like diabetes or cancer.
CAUSES
Factors that contribute to dependence on alcohol and drugs may include inherited traits, the environment, occupation, socioeconomic status, family and upbringing, personality, life stress, and emotional stress. These factors vary among individuals, but no one factor can account entirely for the risk.
PREVENTION
The only way to prevent alcohol and/or drug abuse and dependence is not to start. Warning signs for needing help are not always dramatic. The following questions can help identify dependence.
A.Are you or someone you know experiencing any of the following:
1.Steadily drinking or using more at a time or more often?
2.Setting limits on how much, how often, when, or where you will drink or use other drugs, and repeatedly violating your limits?
3.Keeping a large supply on hand or becoming concerned when you run low?
4.Drinking or using other drugs before going to activities where they would not be available (e.g., class or work)?
5.Drinking or using other drugs alone? Drinking or using other drugs every day?
6.Spending more money than you can afford on alcohol or other drugs?
7.Doing or saying things when you are under the influence that you regret later or do not remember?
8.Lying to friends and family about your drinking or other drug use?
9.Becoming accident prone when you are under the influence (spilling, dropping, or breaking things)?
10.Regularly hung over the morning after drinking?
11.Worrying about your drinking or other drug use?
12.Having work or school problems, such as tardiness or absenteeism?
13.Reducing contact with friends, or experiencing increasing problems with important relationships?
B.If you answered yes
to any of these questions, it suggests your drinking or drug use may be a problem.
TREATMENT PLAN
A.There are no quick cures
for alcohol and drug dependence, but early intervention is of utmost importance because it helps avoid the harmful effects of long-term alcohol or other drug use.
B.Your healthcare provider will be suggesting a plan of action for you to consider. You are strongly encouraged to follow the recommendations.
C.Do not hang around your drinking/drug-using friends. Instead, go to new areas, play new sports, and develop new hobbies. Join groups to make new friends and find other interests that you enjoy sharing with other people.
D.Talk to your provider about seeking professional rehab treatment. Inpatient and outpatient facilities are available to assist you in your goal of becoming alcohol/drug free.
E.Ask about a support group in your area. Resources are available from your provider and you may also search on the Internet for local support groups to meet your needs.
Activity: Daily exercise is helpful in alleviating the craving for alcohol and drugs. Walking daily and increasing your tolerance for distance are recommended.
Diet:
A.Avoid caffeine and nicotine, if possible.
B.Try to eat three meals a day and three snacks.
C.You may be given vitamin supplements to help restore the vitamins and minerals that have been depleted as a result of your alcohol or drug dependence.
Medications: Medications may or may not be prescribed, depending on your need. If you are prescribed any medications, take them exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. If you have any side effects or problems, notify your provider. Medications are intended to help curb the cravings, and if you are having withdrawal symptoms you will need to notify your provider or go to the emergency department (ED).
You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________
Vitamins/Minerals: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________
You Need to Notify the Office If You Have:
A.Severe craving and the urge to use alcohol or drugs.
B.Any thoughts of hurting yourself or others.
C.Impulsive feelings, like you might do something you will later regret.
Phone: ____________________________
RESOURCES
Al-Anon Family: 888-4AL-ANON (888-425-2666) and www.al-anon.alateen.org
Alcohol Help Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 800-ALCOHOL and www.adcare.com
American Council for Drug Education: www.health.gov/nhic
Cocaine Anonymous: www.ca.org. State by state has local contact number to call on the website.
Families Anonymous: 800-736-9805 and familiesanonymous.org
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 877-ASK-MADD and www.madd.org
New Life (Women for Sobriety): 215-536-8026 and www.womenforsobriety.org
Phoenix House: 1-888-671-9392
PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE