Although there is no data on Canadian nurses, rates are most likely similar in British Columbia. Chances are that many nurses work with a colleague who suffers from chemical dependency and is in recovery. Definition Chemical dependency is a disease caused by many interacting and cumulative factors of physiological, bio-chemical, neurological, psychological and social origin. It is marked by addiction to or dependence on mood altering substances or drugs, including alcohol, regardless of how they are administered or obtained - legally prescribed or illegally bought or stolen. This illness is primary, progressive, and chronic in nature and can be fatal to the individual if it is not treated.
Addiction is accompanied by denial, shame, guilt and an attempt to rationalize the situation.
Unfortunately, many people will not seek treatment on their own. Nurses who become addicted often began using chemicals by self-medicating for pain, fatigue, or depression. They usually hold demanding and responsible jobs, are bright, ambitious and respected. They obtain drugs through physicians, hospitals or pharmacies. A large number of these nurses have been physically or sexually abused as children and they developed their dependence when they were adults rather than when they were adolescents.