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Behavior #1 Compulsive Use of Substances

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Behavior #1 Compulsive Use of Substances

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Ryan shows signs of compulsive substance use when he continues to seek and use drugs even though it negatively impacts his health, relationships, and future. His behavior aligns with the definition of substance dependence in Chapter 9. He is unable to stop on his own, which demonstrates a loss of control—a key factor in addiction.

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Ryan and his family sometimes downplay the severity of his addiction. This reflects the concept of denial, which is common in substance abuse disorders. Family members may not fully grasp the extent of the problem, which can delay intervention and treatment.

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When Ryan is not using drugs, he becomes agitated, depressed, or sick, which shows he is going through withdrawal. This supports the idea that his body has become physically dependent. Chapter 9 discusses how withdrawal is a clear indicator of addiction.

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Behavior # 4 Impact on Daily Life & Relationships

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Behavior # 4 Impact on Daily Life & Relationships

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Ryan’s drug use causes him to lose interest in school and creates conflict at home. Chapter 9 describes how substance use disorder can harm a person’s ability to function in daily life. Ryan’s story clearly shows this pattern, highlighting the real-life consequences of addiction.

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Ryan displays clear signs of tolerance, one of the criteria for substance use disorder described in Chapter 9. Over time, he begins to use more of the substance to achieve the same effects he once felt with smaller amounts. This increase in use shows that his body has adapted to the drug, requiring more of it to function or feel “normal.” Tolerance is a dangerous sign because it often leads to more frequent and risky substance use.

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When Ryan goes without the drug, he experiences uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms. These include things like irritability, anxiety, and even feeling physically sick. According to Chapter 9, this is known as withdrawal, and it indicates that his body has become dependent on the substance. Ryan’s withdrawal symptoms are a major red flag that his brain and body are deeply affected by his addiction.

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Persistent Desire / Larger Amounts Taken

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Persistent Desire / Larger Amounts Taken

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Ryan often uses drugs even when he says he doesn't want to, or ends up taking more than he intended. This behavior fits with two symptoms from Chapter 9: a persistent desire to stop and using larger amounts than planned. These patterns show that Ryan has lost control over his substance use, which is a central part of addiction. Even when he recognizes the harm it's doing, he feels unable to stop.

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Ryan’s relationships and daily life begin to fall apart because of his addiction. He spends less time with his family and friends, and his schoolwork and future plans are put on hold. Chapter 9 identifies this as diminished socializing and continued use despite impairments. Ryan’s drug use doesn’t just hurt his health—it changes how he lives his life and separates him from the people who care about him.