If you suffer from dependence on any medication or illegal drugs, then you may be suffering from drug addiction. In an addiction, one is unable to control how much one uses, despite the long-term consequences it has on one's body. Apart from the serious mental and physical effects of drugs, an addiction can cause serious damage to one's personal relationships, the fate of one's career, and can result in jail time.

Drug addictions commonly begin with using drugs at social events. Eventually, it can lead to taking the drugs habitually and in extremely unhealthy doses. Symptoms of addiction include taking the chemical every day or more than once in a day, taking drugs to feel good and to solve your problems, and using a lot of time just to acquire and take the drugs.

For others, it reaches a point wherein stealing drugs becomes an option. Some spend all their earnings just to have and use the drugs, no longer spending for their basic needs. Important responsibilities such as your job and social relationships are less of a priority if they get in the way of the drug.

Addicts can also have a dependence on barbiturates and benzodiazepines, which are central nervous system depressants. Symptoms of addiction include confusion, depression, lack of coordination, drowsiness, and memory impairment. Addiction to cocaine, on the other hand, is signified by restlessness, insomnia, weight loss, paranoia, euphoria, decreased appetite, increased heart rate and temperature, and rapid speech.

Drug addiction also develops in “clubbing” situations, which is commonly seen among teenagers. Club drugs include MDMA or Ecstasy, Rohypnol, and GHB. Signs of club drug use include impaired coordination and judgments, reduced inhibitions, increased blood pressure, and an exaggerated sense of happiness.

Another dangerous form of drug is hallucinogens; examples are LSD and PCP. The most common signs of LCD are having hallucinations, tremors, high blood pressure, perception changes, and rapid heart rate. Flashbacks also occur, which are repetitions or re-experiences of hallucinations. PCP causes euphoria, panic, depression, and even violent behavior.

If you are dependent on drugs or know of anyone exhibiting these signs, then it’s important to get help from a doctor and therapist. Medical help is crucial if you have shared needles or have engaged in unprotected sex while taking drugs. AADAC may also be a great resource for you as it is an agency that specifically assists people in resolving drug addiction issues.

Insight's Therapists are dedicated and able to work both alongside and independently of AADAC and 12-Step programs and offers counselling and assessments with regards to drug addiction in our Edmonton, Calgary, and Red Deer offices, as well as being available for telephone and Skype Counselling all across Alberta.

Insight's Counsellors that can help: