One of the defining aspects of the disease of addiction is that it is progressive. Things will get worse.
Alcoholism or drug addiction is a condition which is primary, progressive and incurable. If untreated, many Chemically Dependent people will die prematurely. The condition is marked by an obsession for and compulsion to use alcohol and drugs despite negative consequences. It is also marked by withdrawal and tolerance.
Progression (It always progresses toward the worse)
1. Biological Progression (tolerance, and physical decline)
2. Social/Relationship Progression
3. Psychological Progression
4. Spiritual Progression
5. Mental Progression.
Biological Progression: The physical effects on the body, and most critically on the brain become progressively worse over time. There is hardly a system or organ in the body that is not adversely affected.
Social/Relationship Progression: Addiction has been called a disease of isolation with good reason. The deeper we move into addiction, the further away we move from loved ones. I have NEVER received a phone call from family saying a patient has returned to using drugs and alcohol and things got soooo…much better (they always tend to be worse).
Psychological Progression: The number of addicts with another or co-occurring mental heal disorder has been rated as high as 80%. Problems such as anxiety, depression etc.
Spiritual Progression: Often one loses faith, not only in their religious beliefs and convictions, but in what is right and wrong. Active addiction destroys personal morals and connection with the world
Mental Progression: There is no question that drug and alcohol use affects the brain and thought processes. There is a distortion of the thought processes. Memory is often affected. Depending on the type of drug, amount used, and duration used significant pemanent brain damage can occur.
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The one about Spirituality is true enough, cause people will start stealing to fund their habit, as well as doing illegal things to get more cash, and maybe end up pushing drugs themselves to turn a profit.
I absolutely agree that once left unchecked or untreated, drug or alcohol problems only tend to get worse as time goes by. It is a serious problem which tears apart so many families and relationships. Drug addiction and alcoholism must be addressed once the early warning signs show before it progresses into something far worse.