NOTE: In addition to substance use and addiction, this section can also apply to other problematic behaviours such as gambling or gaming among others, and the information in this section may offer relevant supports for these problems also.
- When someone regularly uses drugs or alcohol despite continued negative consequences, they may have substance use disorder. A substance use problem occurs when using alcohol or other drugs causes harm to you or to others.
- Substance use problems can lead to addiction.
- Substance use disorders can involve both psychological and physical dependence.
- Getting help can mean different things for different people and it can take many different forms. The chronic nature of substance use disorder or addiction means that relapsing and re-using drugs or alcohol at some point is not only possible, but likely.
- Recovery from substance use disorders is possible. People can, and do, overcome problematic substance use. A person in recovery is going through an individual process to improve their physical, psychological and social health, which can take time.
- It’s important for people to know that successful treatment is not determined by immediate, long-term abstinence. Treatment is successful when the person understands their substance use disorder and seeks help if a relapse takes place. Returning to treatment and healthier behaviours should be considered a success.
- Anyone, at any age or any stage of their life can have a substance use problem. It is important to know that no matter how a person is feeling, he or she is not alone.
- Substance use and other addiction disorders are no one’s fault; they are treatable illnesses