Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Progression Curve

It is theorized that the primary problem in addiction isn't so much a drug or alcohol problem as it is one of impaired coping mechanisms. The drug or alcohol use is just one of many symptoms of this failure to deal with uncomfortable feelings and life situations in a healthy manner. As an alcoholic or addict uses substances to cope with uncomfortable life situations then their ability to deal with these same situations sober becomes less and less. Over time, this failure to deal with life manifests itself in the form of many classic symptoms that can change over time. Perhaps the best model of these changes is what is sometimes referred to as a "Jellinek Curve" or progression curve of addiction. Demonstrated on the following page is a standard progression curve which can be applied to both alcohol and drugs. Understand however, that progression rates, or how long it takes to reach the bottom of the curve, do sometimes vary depending on the substances used, the frequency and the amount.

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