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How To Recognize The Stages of Addiction and Seek Help

Addiction is a complex and multifaceted condition that affects millions of individuals and families worldwide. Recognizing the stages of addiction is crucial in addressing the issue early and seeking help effectively. Learning more about these stages can help individuals and their families identify when there could be a potential substance use problem. It also helps people know when to seek professional help.

What are the Stages of Addiction?

There is a common misconception that addiction happens quickly and only affects heavy substance use. However, addiction occurs through progressive stages. These begin when someone first starts using substances. Over time, continued substance use alters how the brain functions, leading to dependence and, eventually, addiction.

Stage 1: Initial Use – Experimenting with Substances

The journey to addiction often begins with experimentation. Initial use is the voluntary use of a substance, frequently driven by curiosity or social influences. For many, this stage might not pose immediate problems. They do not initially recognize the potential for future dependency.

Many people in this stage consider themselves occasional users and believe they can manage their substance use. Additionally, the effects experienced while under the influence of the substance often reinforce future use.

Stage 2: Regular Use – Patterns Begin to Form

As the initial novelty of occasion use no longer satisfies individuals, they begin using substances more frequently. They want to use substances to deal with stress and escape reality while enjoying the pleasurable effects. People in this stage start to develop a pattern of use. This could be using substances after a stressful day at work or on the weekends.

Regular use can be deceptive because, despite more frequent consumption, individuals might still believe they have control over their usage. Responsibilities such as work or family commitments are usually still manageable. It is also not uncommon for loved ones to not even know their friend or family member is using substances.

Stage 3: Risky Use – Warning Signs of Dependency

As dependence develops, people will start to use substances even more often. They find they are unable to control or regulate their substance use. They start thinking more about using substances and look forward to using them.

They will start to pull away from family and friends at this stage. They can also start having problems at work or school. They become focused on obtaining and using substances, regardless of any consequences.

Stage 4: Dependence – Loss of Control and Tolerance

At this point, physical and psychological dependence on the substance becomes evident. Tolerance develops, requiring the individual to consume larger amounts to achieve the desired effects. Withdrawal symptoms during periods of non-use occur, further compelling continued use. The individual experiences a loss of control, with substance use taking precedence over other aspects of life.

Additionally, they start engaging in more risky behaviours. While under the influence of substances, they could drive, experience blackouts, or engage in unprotected sex. They can begin to experience financial problems or steal money and valuables from family and friends.

Stage 5: Addiction – Substance Use Disorder

Addiction represents the culmination of these progressive 5 stages of addiction, characterized by compulsive use despite harmful consequences. It is a chronic condition, often accompanied by adverse effects on health, relationships, and finances.

People at this stage now need to use substances just to function. If they stop, they experience adverse withdrawal symptoms. They may use substances at inappropriate times. They will also seek out substances in potentially dangerous areas.

Tolerance continues to increase as they have to use more of the substance to achieve the desired effects. This increases the risks of accident overdoses and death. The only way to overcome substance use disorder is with professional treatment and support.

How to Recognize the Signs of Addiction

Recognizing the signs and phases of addiction is not always easy. The person using substances often believes they have everything under control. For friends and family, they may find it hard to believe their loved one is using substance.

Some of the common symptoms to be aware of during the stages of the addiction cycle:

  • Increased secrecy
  • Withdrawing from friends and family
  • Associating with new friends
  • Ignoring responsibilities and commitment
  • Noticeable changes in behaviours and physical appearance
  • Lack of personal hygiene
  • Changes in eating habits
  • Keeping unusual hours, like staying out all night
  • Financial problems
  • Legal problems
  • Mood swings and irritability
  • Easily being angered
  • Being defensive when questioned about substance use

When and How to Seek Help

Acknowledgement of the problem is the first critical step toward recovery. When signs of addiction become apparent, it is essential to seek help promptly. Individuals can start addiction treatment at any of the 5 stages of addiction. Starting sooner can make it easier to quit and have less intensive and severe withdrawal symptoms.

Start by looking for a detox and addiction treatment centre located nearby. While there are free treatment centres, these often have long waiting lists. It is often better to find a private centre as they usually have availability immediately. Early intervention can also prevent substance use from worsening and increase the likelihood of successful recovery.

Support a Loved One in Addiction

Supporting a loved one with addiction is challenging but essential for their recovery. Approach the situation with empathy and understanding, avoiding judgment and blame. Encourage open communication and provide reassurance that you are there to support them. Suggest seeking professional help together and express your willingness to assist them in finding resources and a treatment centre.

Addiction Treatment Options

There are several different addiction treatment options based on the individual’s needs. Detox is usually the first step to recovery to ensure all traces of the substance are eliminated from the body. After detox, individuals can choose from various levels of care, including:

  • Residential Treatment
  • Partial Hospitalisation Treatment
  • Intensive Outpatient Treatment
  • Outpatient Treatment

Each level of care provides access to evidence-based and holistic therapeutic modalities, as well as medication-assisted treatment.

Conquering the Stages of Addiction: A Path to Recovery

If you or a loved one is struggling with any of the stages of addiction, you are not alone. Taking the first step can seem scary, but our caring and supportive team is here to help. At Best Rehabs Canada, we can help you find the best rehab centre in your province. We also provide access to a range of resources, support tools, and addiction information.

Contact us now to start your recovery journey.

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