Addiction may be defined as the continued use of a mood-altering substance or behaviour despite adverse consequence. Classic hallmarks of addiction include:

• impaired control over substances/behaviour
• preoccupation with substance/behaviour
• continued use despite consequences
• denial

Habits and patterns associated with addiction are typically characterized by immediate gratification coupled with long-term costs.

Physiological dependence occurs when the body has to adjust to the substance by incorporating the substance into its ‘normal’ functioning. This state creates the conditions of tolerance and withdrawal. Tolerance is the process by which the body continually adapts to the substance and requires increasingly larger amounts to achieve the original effects. Withdrawal refers to the physical and psychological symptoms people experience when reducing or discontinuing a substance the body had become dependent on. Symptoms of withdrawal can include anxiety, irritability, intense cravings for the substance, nausea, hallucinations, headaches, cold sweats, and tremors.

Counselling is one step in the process of recovery and our practitioners will coordinate your care with other health care providers. Call us today and let’s get started on the path to feeling great again.