Avalon Women's Centres

Addiction

An alcoholic or addict is anyone whose drinking or drugging causes problems in their lives. It doesn't matter how big or small the problem. To find out more please choose 'Am I an Alcoholic' alcoholic questionnaire.

Myths about addiction

I can't be an alcoholic or an addict because:

I have a job.
I never drink in the morning.
I'm not on skid row.
I only get drunk/high on weekends.
I only drink beer or wine.
I only take prescription pills.
I can quit any time.
I don't look like an alcoholic/addict.
I make it to work everyday.

Signs to watch for:

Denying - there is a problem
Lying - about the amount consumed
Addiction in the family
Drinking or using alone
Blackouts - temporary loss of memory while still functioning
Sleep pattern changes
Feelings of fear, guilt, remorse
Using household money for alcohol or drugs
Financial troubles due to addiction.

If you have any questions about how alcohol is affecting your life, please call us 604-263-7177 or 604-913-0477.

Women who are addicted have different issues to cope with than men. Some of the issues faced by female alcoholics/addicts are:

The stigma of being addicted is still greater for women in our society
Child care while in treatment (Single parents often fear they will lose their children to Children's Aid)
Husbands and family tend to protect and cover up for her rather than encouraging her to seek treatment.
Women are more likely to be fired than sent for treatment
Many addicted women have been victims of physical or sexual abuse
Women at home are better able to hide their addiction
Addiction to prescription drugs is much higher among women than men

Don't let these issues prevent you, or someone you care about, from getting the help that's needed.

At Avalon, we deal with these unique issues or make available resources to the appropriate medical service. Our staff help refer or inform. Contact us today to see how we can help.