Substance abuse (whether alcohol or drugs or a combination of the two) may offer diversion from your usual way of feeling. Such use can be an unconscious attempt at self-medicating for another problem, such as stress, insecurity or depression.

Repeated, heavy use, however, can have serious implications for your health and interpersonal relationships. Substance abuse can cause legal difficulties, decrease your job or school performance and can lead to high risk behavior.

If you are constantly thinking about or waiting for the next opportunity you can use alcohol or drugs, you may have an addiction problem. Therapy can help you identify why you are depending upon drugs or alcohol to cope with the stresses in your life. We can find alternative methods and resources you can use to eliminate the need for drugs and alcohol, leading to a healthier, more balanced life.