7 Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Addiction

If someone is abusing drugs regularly, you may begin to wonder what steps can be taken to help them overcome their addiction. Millions of people suffer from some form of drug addiction each year, ranging from marijuana abuse to heroin addiction. Unfortunately, many addicts are reluctant or refuse to seek treatment for their addictions. This results in the loss of employment, family ties, and friendships. Drug addicts that decide to seek treatment have a much higher success rate for overcoming their addictions than those that do not. Below are frequently asked questions about drug addiction

1. What are the most common signs of drug addiction?

  • Some of the most common signs of drug addiction include:
  • Withdrawal from friends and family
  • Obvious changes in appearance, such as weight loss or gain
  • Unexplained absences from work or school
  • Neglect of responsibilities like household chores or childcare
  • Repeated requests for money with an excuse as to why it is needed

2. How can drugs affect the body?

Drugs can directly impact many regions of the brain which control how a person acts, thinks, and feels. By changing the levels of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, epinephrine, and norepinephrine in these regions of the brain, drug addicts can alter their moods and feelings. This can result in increased happiness or feelings of euphoria, but it is also possible that the user will become depressed or anxious depending on how these neurotransmitters are altered within the brain.

3. What is denial?

Denial occurs when drug addicts convince themselves that their current use is not harmful. They will continue to abuse drugs despite the damage they are causing to their bodies, relationships, and careers. When this behavior becomes habitual, it can be very difficult for them to stop abusing drugs on their own due to the brain changes caused by addiction.

4. How does drug addiction affect the brain?

Drug addiction directly affects the brain’s reward system by flooding it with dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates feelings of pleasure and motivation. This does not immediately cause an addiction; however, the more drugs they use and the more frequently they use them, the more their brains will adjust to these highs and require larger doses to achieve the same effects. This can result in drug cravings that are so strong the drug addict will do anything to get more of their “preferred” substance.

5. How long does it take for drugs to leave the body?

Despite how long a person has been abusing drugs, they can stop at any time and begin experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Because drug addiction has caused changes within the brain, it can take some time before a person’s mental and emotional state stabilizes. This results in symptoms that may last from several hours to several weeks, including:

  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle aches and tension
  • Irritability
  • Depression and anxiety

6. How do drug addicts become sober?

A drug addict can become sober by entering an addiction treatment program more info. This is often the best solution because it gives them access to professionals that will help them identify their triggers, learn coping mechanisms and obtain the support they need to succeed.

7. How do drugs cause addiction?

Drug addicts can become addicted to a drug for several reasons, including:

  • Taking the drug in larger doses or more frequently than intended
  • Wanting to stop using it but being unable to do so
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms that are too difficult to manage without the drug

Drug addiction is a disease, not unlike other chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Although there is no cure for drug addiction, treatment has been shown to reduce the likelihood that an addicted person will relapse into drug use. There are various evidence-based therapies available, such as behavioral therapies, medication, and group counseling more info. All of these come with a support system that allows every individual to overcome drug addiction.