Chemical Dependency

Clinical Characteristics:

1. Drug compulsion 

• a. preoccupation with obtaining and using drug of choice
• b. persistent or periodic cravings for the drug
• c. compulsive use despite eventual absence of euphoric effect
• d. fears being without drug of choice
• e. compulsive use of other drug, including alcohol, in absence of drug of choice

2. Loss of ability to control use

• a. can't refuse drug when offered
• b. can't self-limit the amount used
• c. binge patterns of excessive use - especially true with cocaine and amphetamine
• d. failed attempts to stop using

3. Continued use despite adverse consequences

• a. medical complications: lethargy, insomnia, appetite disturbances, loss of sex drive, impotence, abscesses and other infections, nasal or sinus problems.
• b. psychiatric complications: depression, irritability, paranoia, suicidal/homicidal ideation or gestures
• c. social complications: financial, relationships
• d. legal complications
• e. employment complications

4. Denial

• a. denies that the problem exists
• b. denies or down plays the seriousness of adverse effects
• c. acts defensively when asked or confronted about drug use

Notes: Person has no chance of recovery unless he/she can work through denial. Chemical dependency is a chronic recurring disease. Relapse (any episode of drug use) can happen anytime. It is progressive. A number of relapses increases the risk of re-addiction.