Addiction is a brain disorder characterized by the compulsion to keep seeking drugs in spite of negative consequences. When individuals habitually misuse substances, they undergo changes in the brain that impact their self-control and their internal reward system. Some substances are more addictive than others and can drive people to give up just about everything that’s important to them so they can keep using the substance.
There are many different substances that can set off a cycle of addictive behavior.
Addictive drugs act on the pleasure center of the brain, causing an inability to control the compulsive use of substances. Some drugs have a higher likelihood of triggering addiction than others.
A drug that is highly addictive makes users feel very good when using it and extremely uncomfortable when its effects wear off. Once drug dependence has set in, a user experiences overpowering cravings for the drug and may be unable to stop using the substance without help.
People may experiment with substances obtained illegally on the streets, just to see what effect they might have, or because of social pressure. Often users are seeking an experience of euphoria, relaxation, or an ability to escape from reality for a short period of time and may be surprised at how quickly compulsive behavior sets in or how difficult it is to discontinue the habitual use of a particular substance.
Dependence can happen quickly when some substances are used. The most addictive street drugs include:
Many users believe that since prescription drugs can be obtained from a doctor, they can’t be as dangerous as illegal substances; however, chemicals in prescription drugs are often very strong and addictive, and these substances can be dangerous when used in any way other than the way they are prescribed.
Some of the most addictive prescription drugs include:
Legal substances can be surprisingly addictive. People who become addicted to nicotine may find it’s extremely difficult to stop using. Most smokers need to make multiple attempts to stop before they are successful.
Alcohol is a legal substance that is highly addictive. The compulsion to continue to misuse alcohol can be overpowering, and the harm alcohol does to the lives of those who misuse it can be as bad or worse than illegal substances.
Untreated addiction destroys lives and leads to many devastating consequences. For some users, the progression of addiction ultimately leads to death.
When a person has become addicted to a substance, they continue to use the substance in spite of negative consequences, and in most cases they are unable to quit on their own. A variety of treatment options are available. For many people, the best way to overcome substance use is in a residential treatment facility where detoxification can be medically managed and the patient can learn new methods of coping in a highly structured environment.
An alternative to inpatient treatment is intensive outpatient treatment or partial hospitalization. This is a way of attending multiple sessions of treatment every week while remaining in the home environment.
Determining which is the right method of treatment depends on several factors, including how long the individual has been using the substance, what substance has been misused, and whether there are multiple substances to overcome. If you or a loved one has become addicted to one or more mind-altering substances, talk to your doctor or to an addiction treatment professional to determine which course of treatment that is right for you.
The Alta Mira facility, program and staff are second to none. Addiction is really, really tough to kick but spending time here is the best was to get that going and provides you with the necessary tools to succeed. You leave here needing nothing, it is purely up to you and your resolve. They give you everything to succeed in the battle, it is up to you to use it.
Alison
