WHAT IS DRUG ADDICTION?
Addiction comes in many forms. It can take
hold of anyone and often has devastating consequences
for family, friends and the community at large.
Drug addiction is a major health issue and
has far-reaching implications for society and
law enforcement agencies across the world.
Addiction itself is complex. Users can have
both physical and/or psychological dependence
on substances ranging from illegal "street" drugs
to prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Illegal drugs could include marijuana, heroin,
cocaine, crack cocaine, methamphetamines, LSD
or other substances. Many prescription drugs
are abused, and addiction develops quickly
with painkillers like OxyContin, Fentanyl and
methadone. In fact, the rates of prescription
drug use and addiction are soaring. Over-the-counter
drugs could include pseudoephedrine, which
has a restriction on its sale because it's
used to make methamphetamines. Pseudoephedrine
is kept behind counters and those who buy it
are required to have their identity recorded
in the store.
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO ADDICTION
Compulsively using a drug can lead to addiction,
also called dependence. Factors that can lead
to drug addiction include genetics, peer pressure,
emotional distress, depression, anxiety, experimentation,
a history of other abuse, and chronic pain,
which can require prolonged use of addictive
opiates. Drug addiction can cause intense cravings
for the drug, both mentally and physically.
Many habitual users experience very unpleasant
physical effects when they try to stop using.
Not every person who uses drugs becomes addicted,
and some drugs are more addictive than others.
Those with addictions habitually seek out their
drug of choice, regardless of the negative
consequences that may result. Researchers say
physical addiction occurs when repeated use
alters reward pathways in the brain.
OPTIONS FOR ACHIEVING SOBRIETY
Addiction is a chronic disorder and tends
to have a high relapse rate, meaning users
slip backward into old habits and patterns.
This can happen during treatment or even after
it has ended. One of the biggest reason people
delay seeking help is for fear of withdrawal.
This can include intense physical discomfort,
anxiety, muscle spasms, flu-like symptoms,
tremors, hallucination and delirium. Some people
try to quit on their own but realize they need
help from a detox and/or rehabilitation facility.
Denial is common among addicts who may need
family and friends to intervene before they
seek help. Many treatment programs are available,
including in-patient, out-patient and residential.
Most programs use therapy and behavioral modification
to help users achieve and maintain sobriety.
Some people choose to quit on their own or
follow a 12-step program. Rapid detox programs
are also available to quickly help users quit.
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