Alcohol Abuse and Dependence is defined as a “maladaptive pattern of substance abuse leading to clinically significant impairment or distress” (DSM-IV). In reality, my clinical experience has shown that the difference between abuse and dependence can be negligible when considering the consequences to that person’s life as well as to society in general. Substance abuse and/or dependence can result as a way of “self-medicating” from an early history of trauma, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. When substance abuse accompanies another diagnosis, the person may be referred to as having a “dual diagnosis”. This term just refers to the fact that specific considerations must be made with treatment planning efforts.

Prescription Drug Abuse results from improper management of anxiety, sleep disorders and chronic pain. Medications used to treat these conditions are usually abusable. It is a problem to which no one is immune: it can happen to anyone. The first step is to recognize that the individual feels he or she “needs” more medications more frequently, that is, the initial dose is not controlling the problem. Without oversight by the prescribing provider, the patient becomes more dependent on the medications instead of learning how to use adjunctive ways to treat the problem. Many times, when the prescribing provider does not increase the dose, the patient resorts to purchasing the drugs “on the street”, that is buying them from other people who have prescriptions for these medications but do not take them themselves and sell the drugs as a source of income. This is highly illegal for the people selling as well as buying the drugs. In other cases, some people “doctor shop” to find another provider who will write prescriptions for them. It is inevitable that this situation catches up with all parties involved. If you or someone you know is caught up in this treacherous cycle, the sooner help is sought, the better. Treatment at all facilities and with all providers is confidential and strongly protected by privacy laws. Getting help is essential!

Street Drug Abuse includes stimulants, opiates, narcotics, tranquilizers, marijuana, designer drugs, and a myriad of substances. Many times people become addicted as they self-medicate themselves for depression, anxiety, trauma, pain, and childhood deprivation. There are many treatment approaches for drug abuse; however, I have learned in my practice that unless a person learns the dynamics behind why they began and maintained their abuse they are not usually able to stay clean and sober.

| Mood Disorders | Chronic Pain | Life Transitions |
| Personality Disorders | Stress | PTSD |