Thelma McMillen Center for Chemical Dependency Treatment

Need Help?

The Thelma McMillen Center for Chemical Dependency Treatment is here to help. If you have a problem with alcohol or drugs you are not alone in your struggle for sobriety. To help you understand the destructive nature of substance abuse, and the effects on your life and that of your loved ones, read the warning signs below for more information. And, contact us today for help.

Warnings Signs of Chemical Dependency

If a loved one exhibits three or more of the following behaviors, they may need further evaluation by a professional.

• Personality changes when drinking or using drugs.
• Loss of interest in family, social or personal matters.
• Loss of interest in former pursuits.
• Resents suggestions to cut down or is hostile toward people who do not approve of their drinking or using drugs.
• Forgets appointments or plans, or changes schedule in order to drink or use drugs.
• Has become negative and less tolerant.
• Angers easily or is frequently irritable.
• Denies negative consequences from drinking or using drugs.
• Frequently seems preoccupied or has more difficulty concentrating on important matters.
• Seems to blame others for their behavior or problems. Manipulates others to accommodate their drinking or drug use.

Are You A Problem User?

Answer the following questions honestly. Answer "yes" if the statement is true for alcohol or drugs, including any prescribed, recreational, or illegal substances that can be described as mood-altering.

1. Have you ever tried to stop using alcohol or drugs for a week or so but could stop for only a couple of days?
2. Do you resent the advice of others who try to get you to stop or cut down your use of alcohol or drugs?
3. Have you tried to control your use of alcohol or drugs by changing from one type of drink or drug to another?
4. Do you envy people who can use alcohol or drugs without getting into trouble?
5. Has your use of alcohol or drugs impaired your family relationships, your work, your driving safety, or any other aspect of your life?
6. During the past year, have you missed days of work because of your use of alcohol or drugs?
7. Do you tell yourself you can stop using alcohol or drugs anytime you want?
8. Do you sometimes go on binges with alcohol or drugs?
9. Do you ever have blackouts related to your alcohol or drug use?
10. Have you ever felt that your life would be better if you did not use alcohol or drugs?

If you answer "yes" to two or more questions, you may have a problem with alcohol or drugs. If so, talk with a health professional.

Intervention

Sometimes, those who are addicted to drugs, alcohol or both do not see how detrimental their addiction has become. In such instances, "interventions" using trained chemical dependency professionals, family and friends to confront the individual can be effective. Referrals to professionals trained in intervention are available by calling (310) 784-4879.

Links

• Alcoholics Anonymous
• Al-Anon and Alateen
• Center for Substance Abuse Treatment National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month 2003
• Cocaine Anonymous
• Marijuana Anonymous
• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
• National Institute on Drug Abuse
• National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence
• Recovery Month 2003
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services