Substance Abuse

Do you want something better for your life?

Even though it seems like it, you are not alone. Alcohol and drug abuse and addiction are epidemic and cross-cultural. Have you asked yourself what is the underlying reason for my usage? If you’re not enough without your drug-of-choice, you’ll never be enough with it.

Desert View Family Counseling specializes in alcohol and drug abuse counseling and alcohol and drug addiction counseling as well as other problems such as depression, anxiety, bi-polar illness, attention deficit disorder etc., which often precede, accompany, become worsened by or result from substance abuse issues. Many people become addicted through self-medicating these problems We offer personalized therapy for adults, 18 years and older, through our intensive outpatient program as well as individual and family therapy. Countless people recover from substance abuse and addiction and you can, too. We can help.

Drug addiction symptoms or behaviors include, among others:

  • Feeling that you have to use the drug regularly — daily or even several times a day
  • Having intense urges for the drug that block out any other thoughts
  • Over time, needing more of the drug to get the same effect
  • Taking larger amounts of the drug over a longer period of time than you intended
  • Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug
  • Spending money on the drug, even though you can’t afford it
  • Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities, or cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug use
  • Continuing to use the drug, even though you know it’s causing problems in your life or causing you physical or psychological harm
  • Doing things to get the drug that you normally wouldn’t do, such as stealing
  • Driving or doing other risky activities when you’re under the influence of the drug
  • Spending a good deal of time getting the drug, using the drug or recovering from the effects of the drug
  • Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop taking the drug

Recognizing unhealthy drug use in family members

Sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish normal teenage moodiness or angst from signs of drug use. Possible indications that your teenager or other family member is using drugs include:

Problems at school or work — frequently missing school or work, a sudden disinterest in school activities or work, or a drop in grades or work performance.

Changes in behavior — exaggerated efforts to bar family members from entering his or her room or being secretive about where he or she goes with friends; or drastic changes in behavior and in relationships with family and friends.

Neglected appearance — lack of interest in clothing, grooming or looks.

Physical health issues — lack of energy and motivation, weight loss or gain, or red eyes

Money issues — sudden requests for money without a reasonable explanation; or your discovery that money is missing or has been stolen or that items have disappeared from your home, indicating maybe they’re being sold to support drug use.