What is it?

Addictive Disorders: Addictive disorders involve the chronic and compulsive use of substances such as alcohol and drugs, despite the negative consequences. These disorders develop over time and are characterized by a person’s inability to stop engaging in the harmful behavior.

What are the symptoms?

Addictive Disorders: Symptoms of addictive disorders may include:

• Regular substance use (daily or multiple times a day)
• Lying about the extent of their use
• Avoiding friends and family
• Abandoning enjoyable activities
• Talking excessively about substance use
• Believing that substance use is necessary for enjoyment
• Pressuring others to use substances
• Engaging in risky behaviors
• Legal issues related to substance use
• Missing work or school due to substance use
• Experiencing depressed or suicidal feelings
• An inability to stop using substance

How common is it?

About 5.2% (1 in 20) people indulge in excessive substance use, including alcohol.

How does it impact a person’s life?

Excessive substance use can lead to psychological and behavioral problems, affecting a person’s overall functioning. The impact of these disorders often worsens over time, as individuals require more of the substance to achieve the same effect.

How is it treated?

Treatment for addictive and alcohol use disorders may include:

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help address thought and behavior patterns contributing to addiction.
• Medications: Medications can help treat cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and underlying mental health issues.
• Hospitalization: In severe cases, individuals may require hospitalization to treat complications during detoxification.
• Support groups and self-help: Support groups offer education and social support for coping during recovery.
• Behavior therapy: Performed by psychologists or psychiatrists, therapy and counseling can involve individuals, families, or groups.

At Cognis Mindcare, we offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs, combining the most effective therapies and medications to help our clients overcome Smoking/Tobacco Use/Addiction and achieve lasting recovery.