Addiction to alcohol and other drugs is often a chronic problem. It is progressive, continuous, and long-term. People suffering from serious addictions engage in compulsive behaviors and gradually lose control of their lives. They continue to drink or use drugs, even when they know it will lead to negative consequences. People who are becoming increasingly more addicted over time are often unaware and unable to recognize the trouble they are in. Many use denial, rationalization, and minimization as defenses. This lesson reviews the physical and behavioral signs of addiction. It outlines patterns that indicate significant problems with regular substance abuse and will also help you recognize common relapse indicators. This lesson outlines signs of readiness for change and will discuss five important areas in chemical dependency treatment.
