This document discusses why people use drugs and alcohol, why some individuals develop issues with substance abuse, and the challenges of stopping substance use. It notes that using drugs and alcohol makes people feel good but some are more susceptible to problems due to biological, psychological, and social factors. Quitting can be difficult as addiction has many complicated aspects and treatment must be tailored to the individual.

1. Why do we use drugs
and alcohol
Using drugs and alcohol makes us
feel good

2. Why do some people have
problems
 Some of us are more
susceptible to
developing issues
around drugs and
alcohol.
 Biological
 Psychological
 Social

3. Why is it so hard to stop?
 There may be many complicated aspects
of someone’s substance abuse or
addiction.
 Each person is different.
 There is no one treatment for everyone.

4. They just won’t listen.
There is a process of change.

5. How do I know what is the best
treatment
Treatment is different for everyone.
 Motivational therapy
 Cognitive behavioural
 12 step facilitation and peer support
 Mindfulness
 Family therapy
 Pharmacotherapy
These are the best and most widely used
options for dealing with substance abuse
and addiction.

6. Will I always have a problem
 There is a difference
between abuse and
addiction.
 There are neurological
aspects of substance
abuse.

7. Family – addiction both affects and
infects the whole family
Client
Siblings Parents Grandparents