Have you ever been tempted to use drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with stress and pain? Many people turn to substance use as a way to make themselves feel better. Everyone that develops a substance abuse problem starts as a user. The following are the stages on how people progress from drug use to drug abuse:

1. Experimentation

The first stage may seem non-toxic since there are no effects. It all starts as a social activity for the purpose of pleasure or relaxation. Most teenagers use them to intensify party mood and manage pressure. At this point, there is no impulsive usage and it can still be controlled.

2. Constant use

Once you have advanced from experimenting, continuous use of drugs develops. It increases from occasional to regular use. The user will decide on a substance of their choice, which may have catastrophic implications in the end as they also fail to notice their increased usage in quantity.

3. Risky use

This is where the user starts having cynical aftermaths on their lives. The regular use becomes noticeable and their normal activities are affected. They may be seen driving while drunk and have issues at work when they appear drunk or hungover. Teenagers experience drawbacks with bad grades at school and also miss classes.

4. Dependence

The consumer continues to use the substances despite the harm they cause. The ill-use is caused by increased dosage of the drugs. Their bodies learn to accommodate the drugs and rely on them. If the consumption is stopped suddenly, the body suffers from withdrawal symptoms. An individual may choose to run off the occurrence by the continued use of the substances. It is at this stage the user requires drugs as a way to go on through life.

5. Addiction

Once a person matures to addiction, they cannot carry on without using the drugs. Their behavior becomes harmful and it affects their relationships with their loved ones. The user can also develop mental illness. At this stage, even after quitting, there is still a chance of relapse.

6. Treatment

Drug addiction is treatable if the addict is committed and ready. Family support is crucial when one is undergoing treatment. It is also important to ascertain the cause of addiction for the therapy to be successful. Counseling is also important for recovering addicts, to distract them from relapse.

Prevailing over substance use is possible with proper assistance and support. If you or someone you know is using drugs, seek substance abuse treatment.