|
Denial
Either not recognizing or refusing to admit, the relationship between drinking and/or drug problems and severe life problems (e.g., health, family, school). Denial occurs when facing a painful reality is too much for a person to bear. Accepting the truth would turn upside down the person's entire way of viewing themselves, the world and the future. A person is 'in denial' when the facts of a situation are apparent but the person is unable to admit the truth to himself/herself.
Dependence
This term is often used to mean the same thing as addiction. It can be thought of in two ways: (1) psychological feelings of discomfort when the drug is not available (psychological dependence), or (2) a state where the body requires the regular use of alcohol or other drugs in order to continue to function (physical dependence). If a person develops physical dependence and then stops taking the drug, he/she is likely to experience withdrawal symptoms.
Detoxification
A process of allowing the body to rid itself of a drug while managing the symptoms of withdrawal; often the first step in a drug treatment program.
Dopamine
A brain chemical, classified as a neurotransmitter, found in regions of the brain that regulate movement, emotion, motivation, and pleasure.
Drugged Driving
Driving while under the influence of drugs.
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
A disorder seen in a small number of the children born of mothers who drink heavily during pregnancy. A child with fetal alcohol syndrome usually has low intelligence and learning problems.
|