Straight talk about alcohol & drug use:

Here is the first fact: Alcohol and other drugs are addictive and can result in death to those who use them, as well as having terrible effects on users' families, friends, and fellow workers and even strangers.

Reliance or dependence on alcohol and other drugs is a disease. It is not mental illness, but a disease that causes physical symptoms that might be fatal. Further, the use of alcohol and other drugs during pregnancy can be extremely harmful to the baby, when born, and to the mother. In a nutshell, the use of alcohol and other drugs can be devastatingly destructive, or can kill you. This is a fact, not fiction!

Not everyone develops dependence on alcohol and drugs. But, many people have family histories indicating that the disease is genetic in nature. The disease is progressive and the user's consumption of alcohol/drugs and his or her behavior eventually becomes unpredictable. A pattern of unintended use, increased consumption and unpredictable behavior continues, which is when more and more serious difficulties start to appear. As the alcoholic or addict has more problems with the alcohol and drug use, denial of any problems becomes even stronger. It is not unusual to hear an alcoholic/addict who has lost jobs, friends, family or possessions state that he or she is not an alcoholic or addict.

Are you addicted to alcohol or other drugs?

There are many definitions of alcoholism/addiction, and numerous tests that identify the disease in a person. But, generally speaking, if you are having problems in any part of your life as a result of your drinking or drug use, you may be an alcoholic or addict.

Has your drinking or drug use caused any difficulties at home, work or with friends, the police or courts? Have you lost money or material things as a result of alcohol or drugs? If so, we suggest that you call for a free initial consultation. If needed, a full assessment would be done, to learn what form of treatment might be most appropriate.

Alcoholism/addiction always gets worse if using continues. It never improves as long as you drink or use. The disease and problems will become progressively worse.

TREATMENT WORKS!

In order for an alcoholic or addict to get well, use of these chemicals must end, one day at a time. For most alcoholics and addicts, the thought of not using is frightening. Treatment teaches the alcoholic/addict how to stay clean and sober, as well as to learn new ways of living. There is hope for a healthy and productive life without harmful chemicals, but it takes a commitment and some work on th part of the patient and those around him or her.

Skagit Recovery Centers offer outpatient treatment for those who are able to abstain from drinking and using, while attending treatment sessions at our Mount Vernon location. We also make referrals to excellent inpatient facilities when appropriate.

SRC is approved by most health care insurers, accepts medical coupons and can usually find a way to treat those who want help and are serious about treating this fatal disease. Call us today for a free consultation.

Mount Vernon: 360.428.7835