Are you displaying signs of chemical dependency?

No one begins taking drugs or drinking with the ultimate goal in mind to become solely dependent or addicted to that substance. Chemical dependency is a disease that gradually takes hold of you over time. Many individuals display various behavior signs of chemical dependency without even realizing it. 

Individuals who do become mentally and physically dependent on illicit or prescribed drugs or alcohol are usually completely unaware that they have a problem. Individuals will very often be in complete denial despite the visual damage it is doing to their:

• • Physical health 
  • Relationships 
  • Careers 
  • Mental health

• Other facets of their lives 

If you believe that either yourself or someone you love has become chemically dependent, you will need professional help to regain control of your life. 

Chemical dependency defined

Chemical dependency is medically characterized by the constant and repeated use of drugs and/or alcohol in a way that threatens the individual’s mental wellbeing and physical health. An article written by the National Institute of Drug Abuse has stated that dependence develops when the neurons adapt to the repeated drug or alcohol exposure, thus only functioning normally when exposed to the presence of the addictive substance. 

If you have a growing concern for a relative or loved one, we would encourage you to read the list below, highlighting the common signs regarding chemical dependency. If most of these signs correlate with what you are witnessing, we urge you to contact Shoreline Sober Living for a medical assessment and customized addiction treatment plan. 

Common signs of chemical dependency

• Drugs and/or alcohol is often taken in large amounts, often very frequently for the individual to be able to function through daily life 

• Withdrawal symptoms can occur rapidly if the individual makes an effort to stop abusing

• Many if not all social and recreational activities are no longer part of the individual’s life

• The continuation of drug and/or alcohol use despite the constant negative consequences

• The behavior from the individual is entirely different when they are sober and when they aren’t 

• Unsuccessful efforts to control or cut the addictive substances out of their lives

• Complete disinterest in life. They almost seem as if they aren’t mentally available

Chemical dependency has physical, emotional, behavioral, and many other symptoms that can vary depending on the affected individual. Often if a person has been abusing addictive substances for an extended period, they can become somewhat knowledgeable in covering up the fact that they are still using. These individuals are often referred to as “High functioning” addicts. However, the risks to the addicts can be extremely damaging to the following areas of their lives: 

• Personal mental health

• • The mental health of the family and friends that attempt to help
  • Financial stability
  • Personal relationships

• Careers 

• Social life

It can all be just as damaging as an addict who is unable to hide their chemical dependency. 

Reach out for help 

Chemical dependency is a disease and should be treated as such. Shoreline Sober Living has quickly become one of the biggest and most trusted names regarding sober living homes within San Diego, California. With a robust recovery community, low unemployment rate, and climate that supports an active lifestyle, it is the perfect place to find your sober living home. 

Shoreline Sober Living provides the guidance, community, and environment necessary to enact lasting change in a life of recovery from drugs and alcohol- making it what many believe to be San Diego’s top-rated sober living facility.