What are the characteristics of Alcohol / Drug Abuse?

• When you stop using alcohol / drugs you might experience physical or psychological withdrawal.
• You cannot easily control your alcohol consumption or drug use.
• You continue to drink / use drugs in spite of having experienced problems or consequences related to your work, psychological, physical and social well-being.
• Family, friends or colleagues have expressed concerns about your behaviour.

Why do people become addicted?

There are many reasons why people become addicted to drugs and alcohol Genetics, psychological and emotional well-being, family and social relatives, and culture - all can play a significant role. Although the reasons are different from person to person, the common factor is a strong desire to change the way one feels.Substance abuse initially brings about a state of euphoria, well-being or relief of physical or emotional pain. It is this early positive effect that drives further substance abuse, which eventually leads to physical and psychological dependence on the substance as well as significant negative consequences. The hallmark of addiction is the inability to stop using the addictive substance even though you want to stop.

A Self-Assessment for Alcohol and Drug Abuse: (Interactive Quiz)

Instructions: Please answer yes or no to each of the following questions:

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