A chemical dependency is defined as any illness or disease that is caused by an addiction to a chemical substance. The substance in question can be anything that can result in a mood altering state, including alcohol and a wide range of drugs. As such a dependency progresses, the dependent person is unable to stop taking the drug, and will go to more and more desperate lengths to fulfil their craving. This can lead to serious physical health, mental health, financial and social problems.

Everybody has suffered the effects of a chemical dependency in some shape or form. Whether you, a family member, friend or loved one is experiencing the affliction, the results can be devastating for everyone involved. Watching the life of somebody you care about take a downward turn is incredibly heartbreaking, but will hopefully prompt yourself and others who care about the sufferer to do something about it.

The early warning signs of a chemical dependency may be difficult to identify, particularly if the sufferer is doing what they can to hide that they have a problem. If you believe that a loved one may be suffering from such a dependency, it is essential that you do everything you can to ensure that they find the help they need. As a dependency progresses, it can be more and more difficult for the individual to break the cycle and return to their normal life. For this reason, it is important that you can recognise the early signs and symptoms of a chemical dependency.

Initially, such a dependency can commonly manifest in a number of ways. An individual may begin to neglect their responsibilities, such as missing work or school, or even neglecting their children or sacrificing relationships. While there is a fine line between drug use and abuse, you may notice that a dependency is developing in someone you care about if they are displaying more risky behavior than usual, such as taking extreme measures to obtain their drug of choice, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or having to resort to illegal measures such as stealing to fulfil their chemical dependency. Even if these incidents seem isolated, they can often be a sign that the situation is becoming more serious, and are a good indication that some form of intervention is required.

If you yourself recognise any of the above scenarios as a reflection of your own behaviour, it is essential that you take the appropriate steps to seek help. By contacting a rehabilitation facility, your doctor, or even a family member or friend you can commence your road to recovery. It is important to realize that addiction is a disease rather than a sign of weakness. It cannot be avoided, in the same way that measles or cancer cannot be avoided. It is not a reflection on the type of person you are, or your strength of character. But the ability to both recognize that you have a problem, and then do something about it, displays a strength of character that will ensure that you can seek the help you need and return your life to normal.

Many people realize that denial is an important and powerful phase of a chemical dependency, and the most difficult hurdle to overcome in terms of recovery. However, accepting that you, or someone you love, is experiencing a difficult time is the only way forwards. Seeking the appropriate rehabilitation help as quickly as possible is the only way of ensuring a timely recovery before too much damage is caused to personal relationships, physical or mental health.

While Hickory Trail Hospital cannot offer diagnosis, counseling or recommendations online, you can call to schedule a complimentary assessment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 972.298.7323. If you are currently experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Hickory Trail Hospital

2000 N. Old Hickory Trail | DeSoto, TX 75115

Phone: 972.298.7323

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