What are the different phases of drug addiction?

3 min read
30 December 2022

Most parents believe that their teenagers experiment with drugs to demonstrate their rebellious side or to lash out. Those who experiment with drugs simply to try them are labelled naughty youngsters. While attempting drugs for the sake of trying may be one of the reasons why kids become hooked on them, there could be various other reasons. 

“Addiction is an adaptation. It’s not you–it’s the cage you live in.”

– Johann Hari 

If left untreated and not getting addiction treatment in Calgary soon, then this addiction can cause severe damage to an individual's life. Therefore 

The phases of drug addiction



Stage 1: Drug Experimentation

Although it does not always progress to full-blown addiction, drug experimentation is considered the first of four stages of addiction. Experimentation is commonly accepted or encouraged, particularly among young people. However, it is crucial to note that experimentation is not always safe. Trying, especially if youth have specific risk characteristics for addiction, can be an easy path to a long future of substance use problems.



Stage 2: Social or Consistent Use

For many people, stage two of the addiction phase signifies a fork in the road. While some people may be able to use drugs daily without forming a dependent, the danger of substance misuse escalates during this stage. Regular usage also increases the likelihood of engaging in high-risk behaviours such as driving under the influence, emotional volatility, or depression.



Stage 3: Dangerous Use/Abuse

The change from stage 2 to stage 3 may come rapidly and be challenging to recognise in you or a loved one. It is at this point that the drug user starts to prioritise drug usage over other aspects of their lives and starts to lose awareness of or fear the negative effects of their actions. Physical or psychological cravings, depression, irritation, or exhaustion if the substance is not available, are warning indications of Stage 3 addiction.



Stage 4: Drug Addiction and Chemical Dependency 

The final stage of drug addiction is addiction and chemical dependence. These stages are distinguished by continued drug use despite adverse effects, severe effects on physical and mental health, poor work performance or job loss, or involvement in criminal behaviour. Drug usage puts at risk or destroys personal connections. If an addict advances beyond stage four and enters recovery, it is usually a result of hitting rock bottom—arrest or incarceration, near-death experience, loss of a loved one, etc.

Addiction treatment in Calgary can help any young person struggling with addiction to live a better and healthier life. You can contact the smart clinic for further information on treatment alternatives.

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