Contrary to what some may believe, an addiction to alcohol, drugs, and other maladaptive behaviors develops in a series of stages. By becoming familiar with the stages of addiction, you can better identify the warning signs of addiction when they begin to surface in yourself or others and recognize the need for support services like substance abuse treatment. Additionally, understanding these stages will allow you to take proactive steps towards harm reduction and gain greater compassion for yourself as you work towards long-term sobriety.

At Crystal Cove Recovery, our Laguna sanctuary offers those looking to establish and sustain recovery an opportunity to begin again. Our residential substance abuse and dual diagnosis treatment programs will provide you with the structure and support that you need to create a reliable foundation for lasting healing and sobriety. Before beginning treatment, however, you must first accept your need for professional support. Part of this acceptance often involves understanding where you are in the stages of addiction.

What Are the Stages of Addiction?

Before understanding the stages of addiction, it is imperative to differentiate substance use disorder (SUD) from addiction. As detailed by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Substance use disorder (SUD) is a treatable mental disorder that affects a person’s brain and behavior, leading to their inability to control their use of substances like legal or illegal drugs, alcohol, or medications. Symptoms can be moderate to severe, with addiction being the most severe form of SUD.”

On the other hand, as highlighted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences.” Indeed, engaging with alcohol and other drugs in any capacity can increase the risk of substance use disorder (SUD) and addiction. Yet, some people may believe the development of addiction follows a linear path. Despite this, addiction instead develops in a series of stages, which are referred to as the five stages of addiction. The five stages of addiction are as follows:

1. First use or experimentation

2. Regular substance use

3. Substance misuse or abuse

4. Substance dependence

5. Addiction

Learning more about each of these stages of addiction and how they progress can be vital for understanding potential consequences and associated harms, especially when substance misuse and abuse go untreated. This can go for any use of drugs, from alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction to prescription drug addiction and more.

Stage 1 – First Use or Experimental Use

The first stage of addiction occurs when an individual initially engages with alcohol and other drugs. There are many reasons why a person may decide to engage with substances. For many individuals, substance use begins as an attempt to escape present pain. Whether an individual is experiencing abuse or other traumatic circumstances, experiences a low sense of self-esteem, has an unreliable support system, or struggles to cope with the challenges of daily life, they may turn to alcohol and other drugs to self-medicate and gain a newfound sense of control. This coping mechanism, however, can lead to more harm than good.

Another reason why an individual may decide to use alcohol and other drugs for the first time is due to curiosity and experimentation. Surely, it is normal to be curious about the things you have not yet experienced. Yet, experimentation can also open the door to progressing into the next stage of addiction, especially if initial use is perceived as a positive experience.

Additional Influences Like Peer Pressure or Prescription Medications

Alongside curiosity, the decision to use substances may also be mediated by previous exposure, such as watching parents or friends use substances themselves. For many young individuals, peer pressure and an associated need to “fit in” among peer groups can be an especially common reason for initial substance use.

Even individuals who consider themselves to be strong-willed against substance use may still be at risk of initial use through unintentional methods such as exposure to prescription medications. Those prescribed opioid pain relievers after major surgeries, benzodiazepines for symptoms of anxiety and panic, and other prescription medications experience unique risks of progressing to the next stage of addiction. This is because exposure to drugs, in any capacity, can produce feelings of euphoria and effective pain relief that can quickly become addictive.

Signs of Risk Factors and Vulnerability

Many personal, social, and environmental factors can make you vulnerable to initial engagement in substances as well as progressing through the stages of addiction and continuing substance use after initial exposure. While risk factors can be unique to each person, some common risk factors for initial use and eventual development of addiction can include:

• Family history of alcohol or other drug use and associated genetic vulnerabilities
• Favorable attitudes toward alcohol and other drug use by parents or peer groups
• Untreated mental health disorders
• Early substance use
• Peer pressure
• Low perceived social support
• Exposure to traumatic experiences
• Low socioeconomic status

Stage 2 – Regular Use

The next stage of addiction occurs when initial substance use becomes repeated and evolves into regular use. It is important to mention here that the intersectionality of risk factors mentioned above can increase your motivation for continued substance use. For example, a young teen may feel pressured to drink alcohol when surrounded by friends who are drinking. Yet, if they are also struggling with a mental health disorder, their continued use may also be informed by an attempt to self-medicate. Said differently, these risk factors can drive more intense motivations for regular use over time.

From Occasional to Patterned Behavior

When your use shifts from occasional to more regular substance use, you will develop patterns of substance use. Patterns such as using substances after a long day at work, on the weekends, around specific friends, and more can indicate that you are in the second stage of addiction.

Self-Medication and Mental Health Disorders

Individuals living with unresolved mental health disorders are especially vulnerable to self-medicating with alcohol and other drugs. Although substance use may temporarily relieve or distract an individual from painful symptoms of their mental health disorder, engagement in substance use can exacerbate existing symptoms over time. In addition, self-medicating practices can also trigger withdrawal symptoms when an individual is not under the influence, which can become even more intense as tolerance increases.

The Role of Decision-Making and Risky Use

As you continue to use alcohol and other drugs, your brain will undergo unique changes that make you more susceptible to continued use. For instance, brain regions responsible for healthy decision-making, impulse control, and associated behavioral inhibition become impaired through regular substance use, enabling you to reengage with substances repeatedly.

Stage 3 – Risky Use and Increased Tolerance

The transition from the second to the third stage of addiction is marked by substance abuse. Different from mere substance use, substance abuse occurs when you continue to engage with alcohol and other drugs despite the negative consequences they bring to your life. Here, tolerance continues to build, and substances are used in greater intensities to achieve the desired effect.

Ignoring Negative Consequences

Quickly, substance abuse can begin to take precedence over other important activities and responsibilities that are necessary for well-being in daily life. Examples of negative consequences that are often ignored in this stage of addiction can include:

• Increased isolation and withdrawal from social groups
• Interpersonal conflict and damaged relationships
• Depression and anxiety
• Financial distress
• Legal problems
• Worsened mental health conditions
• The development of physical health problems
• Unintentional injury and accidents
• Sleep disturbances

Recognizing Addictive Behaviors Early

By the time an individual is in this stage of addiction, professional treatment may be necessary to prevent further harm. Recognizing addictive behaviors early can be imperative for harm reduction, relapse prevention, and ceasing addictive behaviors before they continue to lead to negative consequences. Some warning signs of substance abuse to consider include:

• Social isolation and withdrawal
• Experiencing intense urges to engage in substance use
• Increased tolerance
• Inability to tend to important responsibilities due to substance use
• Attempting to slow or cease substance use with no success
• Intense mood changes
• Lack of motivation
• Increased distress and withdrawal symptoms when not using substances

Stage 4 – Drug Dependence and Loss of Control

The fourth stage of addiction is also where physical and psychological dependence become apparent. Physical dependence is marked by physical reliance on a substance to function normally or well in daily life. This is also where withdrawal symptoms – such as chills, body aches, nausea, diarrhea, and even tremors – become especially evident when an individual is sober.

Psychological dependence, on the other hand, may develop much earlier, marked by a strong desire to engage in substance use for enjoyment or pleasure. While psychological dependence may not involve obvious signs of withdrawal when a person is not using, it is characterized by drug cravings, emotional distress, and a compulsive urge to reengage in alcohol and other drugs. Psychological dependence can be especially evident when a person is feeling negative emotions and considers self-medicating with substances.

When Drug Use or Alcohol Use Becomes a Need

If you find yourself in this fourth stage of addiction, it is likely that you no longer view engagement in alcohol and other drugs as something enjoyable; rather, you are using substances to avoid uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

Stage 5 – Addiction (Substance Use Disorder)

The fifth and final stage of addiction is met when an individual has progressed through all of the aforementioned stages. As mentioned previously, addiction is characterized by a persistent urge to engage in substance use despite the harmful consequences it may bring to your life. Substance use disorder (SUD) and addiction are diagnosed using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Individuals in this stage may be able to abstain from substances for a period of time, but are unable to maintain abstinence without professional support.

Mental Health Decline and Total Loss of Control

Whether an individual is in denial regarding their addiction and the associated consequences of it, or is open to professional support, it is important to recognize that those experiencing addiction are also experiencing impaired judgment and reasoning, coupled with mental health decline. Individuals with addiction are risking their lives by continuing to engage in alcohol and other drugs, yet because of their drug dependence, they are also vulnerable to suffering severe health consequences if they abruptly stop.

Fortunately, professional treatment is available to meet individuals where they are in their recovery journey. Psychological and medical support services ensure that individuals have the tools and techniques that they need to successfully and safely establish sobriety while implementing lifestyle changes needed for sustainable recovery.

Treatment Plans for Every Stage of Addiction

Knowing your treatment options can be especially motivating for individuals needing support, no matter what stage of addiction you may find yourself in. Consider the following treatment services:

Detox and Withdrawal Management

For many, the journey to healing and transformation begins with detoxification. Detox services will help you safely wean off your drug dependence, ensuring that you are comfortable and supported through the process. A combination of therapeutic approaches, medication, and other medical support is offered during detox to facilitate a stable foundation for the next stages of treatment.

Inpatient, Outpatient, and Dual Diagnosis Treatment Programs

During detoxification, you will have the opportunity to select a treatment program that will best fit your unique situation and schedule. Inpatient and residential treatment programs will require you to reside at the treatment facility as you receive care, whereas outpatient programs will require you to live at home while you participate in services throughout your week. Dual diagnosis treatment programs are offered in both formats and are unique in that they treat substance abuse and any existing co-occurring mental health conditions in tandem.

Tailored Treatment Plans and Support Groups

Regardless of the treatment program you select, you will likely interact with a wide range of therapeutic modalities and approaches as you undergo addiction treatment. Consider choosing a treatment facility that prioritizes individualized care, tailored to meet your specific needs and goals for recovery. With individualized treatment, you will work with your clinical team to select evidence-based treatments, holistic interventions, and group activities that will allow you to develop relational and relapse prevention skills necessary for lasting sobriety.

When to Seek Help From a Treatment Center

Simply put, it is never too soon to seek help from a treatment center. Connecting with staff at a treatment center can reduce intimidation surrounding the treatment process while encouraging you to reflect on the ways that substance abuse has been affecting your life. No matter what stage of addiction you may find yourself in, seeking help can prevent you from progressing into further stages and minimize your risk of future harm.

Break the Cycle of Addiction With Crystal Cove Recovery

At Crystal Cove Recovery, we offer detox and residential treatment programs for individuals looking to overcome substance abuse, addiction, and dual diagnoses. Our treatment center in Laguna Beach, CA, offers you an opportunity for a new beginning, surrounded by serene environments designed for transformation and healing. Our integrated treatment plans and use of evidence-based treatment interventions ensure that you have the skills and knowledge that you need to achieve lasting healing in all areas of your life. Learn more about our treatment programs by connecting with us today.

At Crystal Cove Recovery, we individualize our residential treatment programs to meet clients where they are in any stage of addiction. We specialize in dual diagnosis, ensuring that you have the best chance at securing lasting sobriety and recovery. Learn more about our treatment programs and services by calling us today at (949) 227-4306.