As if we haven’t heard enough already…
…here is more news about addiction: November 18 to 24 is National Addiction Awareness Week. How timely!Whatever your feelings about the current political conundrum, addiction is not a laughing matter even if it is welcome fodder for comic shows.
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health defines addiction as any behaviour that is out of control in some way and describes it as the presence of the 4 C's:
- craving
- loss of control of amount or frequency of use
- compulsion to use
- use despite consequences
Why don't people just stop their addictive behaviour if it is so destructive? Well, that's easier said than done. Whether it is addiction to substances like alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs like cocaine/crack, speed, hallucinogens, ecstasy, heroin, prescription drugs or addictive activity like porn or gambling, the immediate effects tend to be positive. The person may feel good, have more confidence and forget about his or her problems – albeit, relief is of short-term duration and produces more compelling cravings. Continued addiction, especially heavy substance use, can cause changes in the body and brain.
National Addiction Awareness Week is an opportunity for all of us to talk about the complex problem of addiction in our midst… The Canadian Centre for Substance Abuse reports that substance abuse costs Canadian taxpayers more than $40 billion a year! While there is no doubt that addicted persons need professional help, families, co-workers and society at large are also affected by someone's addiction. So we all need to look for solutions to help change the lives of those touched by addiction.
For more information and help call the Drug and Alcohol Helpline at 1-800-565-8603. It's free, confidential and anonymous. Check out also our books on the subject of addiction.
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