What Is Drug Addiction?
Drug addiction is a chronic psychological condition, often considered a disease, that inhibits the sufferer’s ability to stop using chemical substances. Over time, substance abuse overloads the brain reward centers with dopamine. As this occurs, the addict gains a tolerance to their drug of choice, requiring them to take more in order to feel the same effects. Prolonged drug use also damages brain pathways responsible for judgment and decision-making, resulting in a lack of inhibitions. The combination of these factors makes it very difficult for the addict to stop using on their own, necessitating professional drug addiction treatment at a qualified rehabilitation facility.
Common Drugs of Choice
Those who suffer drug addiction will sometimes use multiple substances. Many, however, will largely stick to a single drug of choice. Drug addiction treatment may focus on any or all of the following common drugs of addiction:
- Heroin
- Opioids (oxycodone, codeine, etc.)
- Benzodiazepines (Adderall, Xanax, etc.)
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
- MDMA
- Inhalants
- Synthetic marijuana
- Bath salts
This is not necessarily an extensive list, but should provide an idea regarding the most common substance use disorders treated at alcohol and drug rehab facilities. If you know that your use of a mind-altering substance has become problematic, and it is not on the list, you should still reach out for help. Drug addiction treatment may very well be the solution you need.
How Does Treatment Work?
Drug addiction treatment addresses both the physical and mental components of addiction. Physical cravings diminish over time, but the mental obsession often remains. To complicate matters, many addicts suffer from co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression. Treatment facilities help addicts recover by addressing these issues while also providing them with necessary recovery tools such as therapy, addiction education, holistic methods and a strong support system. As they learn to utilize these tools in their ongoing recovery, they are kept in a safe space in which they are unable to use drugs or alcohol. This allows them to discover the joys of sober living while mitigating the chances of relapse.
Who Needs Drug Addiction Treatment?
Most people who struggle with drug addiction are aware of their condition. However, a few common symptoms will help in the identification of those who are struggling with addiction. These include, but are not limited to:
- Inability to quit or self-regulate
- Continued use despite consequences (divorce, job loss, etc.)
- Drastic changes in mood or behavior
- Changes in weight, skin tone or general appearance
- Constant lack of finances
- Mounting legal issues
- Failure to meet obligations or appear at important engagements
- Denial, rationalization, or blaming others for continued drug use
- Pre-occupation with drug culture or loss of interest in other activities
Anyone demonstrating these symptoms should seek drug addiction treatment immediately. Once the addict begins suffering consequences related to their drug use, the problem will only get worse before it gets better. A drug rehab facility such as New Hope Medical Detox Center can provide remedies in the form of therapy and other tools to help addicts overcome their addiction before it overtake their lives entirely.