Knowing when you have a substance abuse problem is not always easy. Not everyone who uses drugs or alcohol is a substance abuser, but for those who are, there are plenty of ways to excuse drug and alcohol use, even if some might consider it excessive or harmful. Denial and substance abuse commonly go together, blurring the lines between what is a safe, acceptable amount of usage and what is considered abuse.
Substance abuse is defined as the repeated, detrimental use of a substance for the purpose of altering one’s mood. Though substance abuse can have a number of different appearances, there are certain ways of telling whether or not you have become a substance abuser.
It is not uncommon for someone abusing a substance to feel guilty or ashamed about their behavior. Often, a substance abuser will try to cut back on their consumption and fail, spawning feelings of discouragement that lead to more substance abuse.
A person abusing a substance will experience a change in their behaviors and in their ability to function. They may have the tendency to lie about the amount and the frequency of which they use the substance. They may start to deteriorate in their work or school performance. Or they may even do damage to their finances and legal standing.
While the person is intoxicated, their behavior may be out of control. They may black out and forget portions of their days, or they may do something that they heavily regret when they recall it.
Substance abuse takes a heavy toll on personal relationships, and chances are, if you are a substance abuser, your friends and family members have reacted to your substance use in a way that indicates they are troubled by it, or perhaps they have directly expressed concern for your well-being.
If you or someone you know is a potential substance abuser, contact one of the quality drug abuse rehab centers in your local area and have a professional evaluation or intervention arranged.