How can you tell whether you or someone close to you may have a drinking or drug problem? Answering the following four questions can help you find out. (To help remember these questions, note that the first letter of a key word in each of the four questions spell "CAGE.") Have you ever felt you should Cut down on your drinking or drug use? Have people Annoyed you by criticizing your drinking or drug use? Have you ever felt bad or Guilty about your drinking or drug use? Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover (Eye opener)? One "yes" response suggests a possible alcohol or drug problem. If you responded "yes" to more than one question, it is highly likely that a problem exists. In either case, it is important that you see your doctor or call C.A.R.E. right away to discuss your responses to these questions. We can help you determine whether you have an alcohol or drug problem and, if so, recommend the best course of action for you. Even if you answered "no: to all of the above questions, if you are encountering substance abuse-related problems with your job, relationships, health, or with the law, you should still seek professional help. The effect of alcohol or drug abuse can be extremely serious - even fatal - both to you and to others. Substance abuse problems exist when your or your loved ones experience difficulties related to the use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs such as illicit street drugs or prescription painkillers or tranquilizers. Chemical dependency, such as alcoholism, is chronic, progressive, and when left untreated a prematurely fatal disease. Treatment for substance abuse is most effective when it helps you develop skills for dealing with the many demands of recovery and the problems associated with your substance use. Involving family members in the treatment process further improves success rates. Our counselors at C.A.R.E. help you and your loved ones develop the skills to overcome the grip of alcohol or drugs and maintain the life you want to live - free of destructive addictions. Many substances can be abused and cause physical and psychological dependency. The most common abused substances are alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and crack cocaine. Nearly 14 million Americans suffer from alcohol abuse or dependence Approximately 2-3 times as many men as women suffer from alcohol abuse or dependence Women often experience health and other problems sooner in the course of their drinking than do men. Roughly 43% of Americans have grown up with or married someone with a drinking problem. The majority of the 50 million smokers in the U.S. are considered dependent. Many people have problems with 2 or more dependencies. Overcoming addictions is not easy, the first step is often the hardest - but our team of psychologists, therapists and chemical dependency counselors is here to listen, to understand and to show you the ways to overcome addictions and lead a happier, more fulfilling life. Doctors and lawyers put their trust in our care and recommend us to their clients. You can trust our C.A.R.E., too. Drug and Alcohol Assessments DUI/Deferred prosecution Evaluations Alcohol and Drug Information School Intensive Outpatient Treatment for Teens and Adults Relapse Prevention/After Care Programs Women's & Men's Groups Alcohol and Drug Screenings Employee/Student Assistance Programs Treatments of other addictions..... Smoking, Sex/Pornography, Spending, Eating, Co-Dependency, and Gambling At "The C.A.R.E. Center" you will find a team of psychologists, therapists and chemical dependency counselors ready to help you face your most challenging issues. You will find people who have a genuine enthusiasm for helping you to overcome your addictions. Under the direction of Dr. Stephen A. Younker, they are ready to help you. Our team includes professionals who have special expertise to help you overcome addictions. No matter what your situation, you will find someone who is trained for your special needs, someone who listens, cares, and helps. We at C.A.R.E. are dedicated to helping you overcome your addictions. You are a valuable and significant person, and we are here to provide the compassionate understanding and empathy you need.