The four levels of addiction are experimentation, social or regular usage, risky use, and finally addiction or dependency. Most people never get beyond experimentation, but those who progress past level 2 will most likely develop an addiction.
 
Level 1 is experimentation. This may not lead to an addiction, but it is still considered to be the first level. If people do not experiment, they cannot make the first step toward addiction to that substance. If someone shows signs of risk factors for addiction, experimentation can be an easy first step. If the drug is introduced at a time when the individual is vulnerable, then there is a greater chance that the drug use can lead to being a more serious issue. If drug experimentation has positive reinforcement, it can more easily move toward addiction.
 
Level 2 is that of social use or regular use. This is a place where people either stay in social use or make the move toward dependence. Regular use sometimes leads to more risky behavior, like emotional volatility or driving under the influence, or other inappropriate behaviors. At this level, it is important to watch for changes in behavior and mood, shifts in priorities, and early signs of physical addiction. People who are at this level may develop feelings of shame and withdrawal from some friends and family.
 
At Level 3 the person using will prioritize drug use over other areas of life. They may also become less aware of the consequences of their substance abuse. The most noted warning signs are physical addiction, psychological cravings, depression, or fatigue if the substance of choice cannot be accessed. The biological or psychological need for the substance can easily move one to full dependency on the drug.
 
Level 4 is the final stage of addiction and chemical dependency. Characteristics of this level include continued use, regardless of any consequences. At this level, the person dealing with addiction would never have imagined themselves at this point. They are often unable to identify their problem but are not able or willing to make the changes needed to get to correct the problem.

Care happens differently at each level that it can be provided. It is generally broken down into 5 levels or types of care.
 
Level 1 is early intervention. Early care or intervention focuses on individuals who are at risk of substance abuse problems.
 
Level 2 is outpatient treatment. Outpatient treatment can be delivered in a wide range of settings. They are provided in regular sessions with trained people to guide the patients or clients through the transition.
 
Level 3 is an outpatient treatment that provides treatment in an outpatient format but is more intensive than level 2. This allows the patient to learn essential skills and knowledge while applying them to real-world environments. These programs are usually associated with other levels of care.
 
Level 4 is inpatient or residential treatment. This is an organized treatment that runs for 24 hours per day. The patient stays at a facility where all parts of the day are programmed and the patient is monitored. The patient is housed in a safe living environment that is stable to develop recovery skills and a transformed life.
 
Level 5 is treated in a medically managed program that is intensive and inpatient care. These are staffed by physicians and psychiatrists who are credentialed in working with addictions. This treatment is for people whose addictions and mental health require more help than can be provided at level 4.

Drugs and other substances flood the brain with dopamine and neurotransmitters. Addictive drugs can release up to 10 times the levels of dopamine that natural rewards can. They do it more quickly and more effectively. The brain receptors in a person who becomes addicted get overwhelmed. This causes the brain to produce less of the natural dopamine. People who become addicted usually find that over time the substance that they enjoy no longer gives them the feeling they long for. They will use more of that substance to increase the high because their brains have adapted. As the need for more to gain the remembered feeling, compulsion takes over.

Psychiatry Unplugged works with people who are dealing with substance use disorders. We will provide you with a treatment plan that is tailored to meet your needs. There is a range of services that Psychiatry Unplugged provides that make your transition out of addiction, easier. Call for more information or to make an appointment. You can also request an appointment online. We serve patients from Los Angeles CA, Glendale CA, Beverly Hills CA, Santa Monica CA, Hollywood CA, Burbank CA, and Pasadena CA.