Addiction Rehab Thousand Islands Getting To Know Canadian Addiction Treatment Centr | Page 10

ALCOHOL ADDICTION - STAGES OF
PROGRESSION
 Early stage

This is best characterized by sneaking of drinks and drugs, however applicable. This is often
preceded by thoughts to misuse or abuse the substance. For instance, regular doses begin to
vary. Gradual and controlled dosage becomes sporadic. For alcohol addiction, the affected
person begins to gulp his drink faster than usual. A common route of administering drugs in
addicted patients is by injection. Most times, the dosage is spiked. Eventually, repetition of these
processes results in memory blackouts.
 Middle stage

Loss of control is the main feature of this stage. For addicted individuals, there is no line between
right and wrong and self-discipline is often compromised. The frequency of relief drinking
increases. Because of the fall in the value system, the addict finds it comfortable to come up with
an excuse for taking the substance. Even though he knows the consequences of overdose, he
cons himself into abusing the substance.
 Late stage

Shakes and tremors set in after an accumulated time of drug and alcohol addiction. For want of
control, lengthy binges cannot be avoided. Some cognitive and thinking processes become
impaired, resulting in irrationality. Accumulated guilt makes the addict persistently remorse. While
tolerance decreases, there is an increase in emotional instability. Other common features are
deterioration in physical health and moral standards.