Drug addiction can cause death. If you don't seek treatment, you could die by overdose or engage in risky behavior when under the influence of substances. Treatment can aid people in recovering from addiction, and also prevent severe consequences.
Anyone can develop a substance use disorder. Nothing can tell whether someone will develop an addiction. You may be more prone to drug use because of:
Doing your best to stay clear of substances is the most effective way to look after yourself. If you begin to experiment with substance use, it becomes harder to end the habit. If you think you have an addiction disorder and would like to quit, speak to your doctor who can provide guidance on the next steps.
Substance use disorders and alcohol abuse are among the top causes of preventable illness and premature death. Studies have shown that approximately one in nine Americans is addicted to illicit drugs (about 11% from the total population). Most commonly abused substances are marijuana and prescription drugs.
Drug addiction, also known as substance use disorder is a brain disease. Drugs affect your brain, including your decision-making ability. This makes it difficult to stop taking drugs, even if you'd like to. If you or someone you love is suffering from a disorder of substance use, talk to a healthcare professional. A skilled professional can assist you in obtaining the treatment you require. Usually, a combination of medication and continuing therapy can help people recover from addiction and go back to their normal lives.
Humans are biologically motivated to seek rewards. Often, these rewards come from healthy behaviors. If it is a time to spend with a beloved one or enjoy a tasty food, your body releases a substance called dopamine, which creates a feeling of pleasure. The cycle continues that you seek these experiences since they provide you with good feelings.
There are numerous treatments that one can select from. For instance, some people with severe forms of addiction opt to go through a detox program prior to transitioning into rehabilitation. Others may choose to begin rehabilitation in an outpatient or inpatient center. Following treatment, it is advised to keep reinforcing the lessons learned during rehabilitation by participating in counseling sessions and groups of support.
Drugs can send huge surges of dopamine throughout the brain, too. Instead of feeling motivated to accomplish the things that are necessary to live (eat and work, spend time with your loved ones), such massive dopamine levels can trigger damaging changes that change thoughts, feelings and behavior. It can cause a negative drive to seek pleasure from the drug and less from positive, healthy experiences. The whole process is about seeking and consuming drugs to get that pleasurable feeling.
Recovery from addiction isn't easy. It will take a significant amount of self-control and willpower to maintain and sustain long-term sobriety. But, you're not alone when you embark on this journey. During rehab, you'll build solid relationships with other people in recovery who can be a part of the struggles you're experiencing. Your family, friends and other loved ones also will have your best interests at the forefront during this time.
The effects of addiction to drugs alter the brain in time. It affects how the brain works and even the structure of the brain. It's the reason healthcare professionals consider substance use disorder a brain disorder.
Recovery from addiction is dependent on how much effort you commit to the process. Discover the ways addiction is dealt with below to better understand what lies ahead.
The first use of a drug is a choice. But addiction can develop, creating a very dangerous condition. Drugs can alter your decision-making capacity, including the decision to stop using drugs.
Inpatient rehabs offer structured treatment programs designed to deal with all aspects of an addict's problem. During inpatient rehab, patients reside in a substance-free facility and receive around-the-clock medical care as well as therapeutic support. Inpatient rehabs are an excellent alternative for those suffering from chronic addiction and also people who suffer from co-occurring mental or behavior disorder.
It is possible that you are aware of an issue, but are unable to stop. With addiction, stopping drug use can be physically painful. It could make you sick and even become life-threatening.