Substance Abuse

What is binge drinking?

• Binge drinking is defined as having five or more (four or more for females) drinks in a row or on one occasion.
• Signs that drinking is a problem: blacking out, missing classes, fighting with others, drunk driving, not doing school work, engaging in unplanned sexual activities, damaged property, gotten in trouble with the law, others mention it is a problem, you think it MAY be a problem

What are the symptoms of substance abuse/chemical dependence?

The following are the most common behaviors that indicate an individual is having a problem with substance abuse. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• getting high on drugs or getting intoxicated (drunk) on a regular basis
• lying, especially about how much they are using or drinking
• avoiding friends and family members
• giving up activities they used to enjoy such as sports or spending time with non-using friends
• talking a lot about using drugs or alcohol
• believing they need to use or drink in order to have fun
• pressuring others to use or drink
• getting in trouble with the law
• taking risks, such as sexual risks or driving under the influence of a substance
• work performance suffers due to substance abuse before, after, or during working or business hours
• missing work due to substance use
• depressed, hopeless, or suicidal feelings
  The symptoms of substance abuse may resemble other medical problems or psychiatric conditions. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

Treatment for substance abuse/chemical dependence:

Specific treatment for substance abuse/chemical dependence will be determined by your physician based on:

• your age, overall health, and medical history
• extent of the symptoms
• extent of the dependence
• type of substance abused
• your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the condition
• your opinion or preference
  A variety of treatment programs for substance abuse are available on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Programs considered are usually based on the type of substance abused. Detoxification (if needed, based on the substance abused) and long-term follow-up management are important features of successful treatment. Long-term follow-up management usually includes formalized group meetings and developmentally age-appropriate psychosocial support systems, as well as continued medical supervision. Individual and family psychotherapy are often recommended to address the developmental, psychosocial, and family issues that may have contributed to and resulted from the development of a substance abuse disorder.