What is Drug Addiction?
Drug addiction can be defined as the continued compulsive use of drugs in spite of adverse health or social consequences. Addiction is a medical condition involving serious psychological and physical changes from repeated heavy use. The symptoms of addiction are uncontrollable drug craving, drug seeking, and use that persist even in the face of negative consequences. It is a progressive illness, which can and will grow worse if left untreated. Drug addiction is a chronic condition, which means it is a long-standing illness, which can lead to death.
Most scientists consider addiction a disease of the brain. This brain disease is a condition caused by persistent changes to its structure and function. Using drugs repeatedly over time changes the structure of the brain and function in fundamental and long-lasting ways that can persist long after the individual stops using. After a certain amount of drug is consumed, which is different for everyone, it is as if a switch has been flipped in the brain.
If you notice any unexplained changes in physical appearance or behavior, it may be a sign that your loved one is having a substance abuse issue. If you notice any of the following warning signs, consult with a professional.
- Change in sleeping patterns
- Bloodshot eyes
- Slurred or agitated speech
- Sudden or dramatic weight gain/loss
- Neglected appearance/poor hygiene
- Accidents/injuries
- Hiding use/lying/covering up
- Loss of control or choice of use
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Emotional instability
- Depression
- Missing school or work
- Failure to fulfill responsibilities at work/school
- Avoiding eye contact
- Money missing
- Secretive behavior
- Change in friends
- Disappearances for long periods of time
- Secretive phone calls
- Hyperactive or hyper-aggressive
Some people view drug addiction as a failure of will however, research contradicts this. An addict cannot stop using by sheer force of will. However, just because addiction is a disease, this does not mean that the addict has no control or has become a victim to their drug use. The lack of control that they may feel over their addiction does not absolve them from their behavior. It just means that they need to seek professional help for their addiction before the disease gets the best of them.
To help a person who is suffering from a drug addiction, keep the following in mind:
- Understand that the person who is addicted to drugs may have made the choice to try the drug but they did not choose to be addicted. No one chooses to be addicted. An addicted person’s brain is functioning abnormally and their drug use has grown out of their control. Drug addicts need and deserve the same medical treatment as anyone else who may be suffering from a chronic disease.
- Find the addict a treatment program that will treat all of their individual problems concurrently such as drug addiction, behavioral issues, mental illness, etc.
- Since treatment does not have to be voluntary to be effective, consider involving the justice system, employer or other method to force treatment.
The best way to treat an addiction is to heal the entire individual, combining medication behavioral therapy, social services and rehabilitation. There are a variety of drug addiction treatment methods available including residential inpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, individual counseling, family counseling and a number of community support groups.
Drug Addiction, Alcohol Addiction, Addiction
E-mail: drug_rehab_counselor@narconon-stonehawk.com
