Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

LAPLACE—If someone you love is using opioids it may not be easy to spot in the early stages of addiction. However, there are resources and information about addiction and recovery services available. St. John the Baptist, St. Charles and St. James parishes, as well as four other parishes, are part of South Central Louisiana Human Services Authority’s coverage area.

Addiction is a chronic and progressive disease. The cycle of addiction usually begins with experimental or social use. Abuse occurs when social use results in multiple consequences. Dependence occurs when there is a physical or emotional need for a substance or behavior in order to “feel normal.”

Some commonly acknowledged addictive behaviors involve alcohol, tobacco, cocaine, gambling and food.

Some substances and behaviors are not so obvious as being addictive because they are more readily available and acceptable. These can include pain pills, prescription medication and over-the-counter medication.

South Central Louisiana Human Services Authority offers several outpatient addiction services including substance abuse professional services, crisis intervention and therapy to name a few. SCLHSA is located at 158 Regal Row in Houma and can be reached by calling 985-858-2931. For more information visit http://www.sclhsa.org/.