Drug Abuse

Contrary to popular belief, there is a difference between drug abuse and drug addiction. This is not to suggest that the individual suffering from drug abuse is better off because he or she is not yet addicted, only that there is a difference between drug abuse and drug addiction.

Drug Abuse Overview

• The person diagnosed with drug abuse does not develop a physical dependency on the drug
• An individual suffering from drug abuse is still able to set limits on their drug use
• An individual suffering from drug abuse generally does not repeat unhealthy behaviors
• An individual suffering from drug abuse experiences and understands the consequences of their drug use
• With drug abuse one does not develop a tolerance to the substance

Consequences of Drug Abuse

While drug abuse is not regarded as serious a situation as drug addiction, if it isn't treated in time, addiction can, and often does, develop. But that's not to say that individuals who suffer from drug abuse are not seriously affected by their use. Some potential problems that can result directly from drug abuse include:

• Problems within the family
• Problems on the job
• Legal problems
• Relationship problems
• Declining health
• Financial hardships

It is easy to see, that if a person's drug abuse continues over a period of time, consequences will mount and the drug abuse can very easily turn into drug addiction.

When drug abuse becomes drug addiction there is a significant change in the symptoms; you will develop a physical addiction to the drug and experience cravings, withdrawal symptoms develop if you abruptly discontinue using the drug and over time you develop a tolerance. This all goes without mentioning the severe consequences that accompany drug addiction. Whether drug abuse or drug addiction, there is help available in the form of effective drug abuse treatment.

Women's Drug Abuse Statistics

At the Women's Treatment Center for Healthy Living, we understand that the vast majority of women who suffer from drug abuse are also living with another co-existing condition. This can include:

• Eating disorders
• Depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Anxiety disorders
• Other psychiatric disorders

When a patient is suffering from both drug abuse and one of these conditions above, they require specialized dual diagnosis treatment. The key to this type of treatment is to treat the patient's drug abuse and their accompanying disorders concurrently.

The Women's Treatment Center for Healthy Living has been designed to treat drug abuse in conjunction with a psychiatric disorder or eating disorder. Our staff has extensive training in this type of treatment and we are proud to say we have provided women from all parts of the country with excellent drug abuse, dual diagnosis and eating disorder treatment. Our recovery rates far exceed industry standards and are due to the dedication of our staff and the hard work of our patients.

Don't become a drug abuse statistic, get help today! Call the Women's Treatment Center for Healthy Living toll-free at 1-800-391-4309. Your confidential consultation is the first step toward receiving the nation's best treatment for drug abuse symptoms. We have caring counselors standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call now!