Topic: recognizing addiction

In addictions, a compulsion is usually expressed as a powerful, perhaps even overwhelming urge to continue gambling, drinking, whatever.

Naturally, high-energy entrepreneurs are attracted to stimulants. At least until they begin to experience the toxicity associated with too much of a good thing.

They qualify for the diagnosis, but have not yet experienced the sort of problems that are usually required to motivate a serious attempt to abandon drug use.

The addicted brain is unable to accurately evaluate the situation.

This isn’t a problem a physician can deal with comfortably in the context of a 12-15 minute office visit.

There’s a lag between the onset of an addictive disorder and arrival in treatment.

He perceives it as gradual when in reality it’s progressing rather quickly.

I’m always surprised when some pro athlete tests positive on the first day of training camp– what, he didn’t get the memo?

You understand, on an emotional level, that you’re not really alone, and that everyone isn’t looking down on you for being who you are.

A key trait of the addict is a weird ability to function despite the presence of high concentrations of a drug.