Substance Abuse Matters

Substance Abuse Matters

By David H. Ebaugh, MA, LCPC, CCDC, CEAP

Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor

Any form of chemical dependency, alcohol or drug, is ultimately a terminal illness if left untreated.  It is terminal because of the progressive nature of the disease:  the user and the life always become worse, never better while using.  However, chemical dependency IS treatable. 

Chemical dependency never seems real until the person reaches that point of helplessness while using.  That is, when the user is hit over the head with such a big two by four that the truths about problem use can no longer be ignored.  There are, however, many stages before reaching helplessness when a person’s chemical dependency reveals signs of interference in daily life or personal responsibilities.  For the accepting, these signs are early clues that help is needed.