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Addiction is a chronic disease that can be successfully managed. Research shows that combining therapy with medication, when available, offers the best chance of recovery for most people. In fact, 85% is a common success rate in treatment and recovery programs that combine professional treatment with support groups like AA or NA.” (Sources: SAMHSA, NIDA, other research studies)
Treatment helps individuals:
Stop using the addictive substance or engaging in the addictive behavior
Manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings
Address harmful behaviors and life challenges linked to addiction, such as low self-esteem, work or home issues, and negative social influences
If you or someone you know may be struggling with addiction know that help is available. While treatment may seem overwhelming, remember that over 22.3 million Americans are in recovery today. There is a welcoming and supportive community ready to help you succeed.
Horizon Behavioral Health and the CVARR Coalition are committed to supporting individuals battling Substance Use Disorder, Alcohol Use Disorder, and other addictions. We provide the tools and support necessary to overcome addiction and move forward with a healthier life.
Addiction
Addiction, whether related to alcohol, gambling/gaming, or drugs, is difficult to define but often easy to recognize. It leaves individuals powerless to their cravings. Addiction is a disease that can destroy the lives of the person suffering and those around them. The hardest step in overcoming addiction is often the first: admitting there is a problem.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, addiction is a “chronic condition characterized by compulsive seeking and use of a substance or engaging in an activity despite harmful consequences.” Addiction is considered a brain disorder because prolonged substance use alters the brain’s structure and function. These changes can lead to compulsive drug use and destructive behaviors, which can be long-lasting.
Causes and Risk Factors
Addiction is a complex disease with biological, environmental, and psychological contributors. While it’s impossible to predict exactly who will become addicted, several factors can increase the likelihood of addiction.
One key factor is dependency, where the body becomes reliant on a substance to function normally. Over time, more of the drug is needed to achieve the same effects, and stopping the drug can cause withdrawal symptoms. This cycle often leads to addiction.
Signs and Symptoms
Drug use affects people across all walks of life and levels of socioeconomic status. Whatever reason a person starts taking drugs for—whether recreationally or as prescribed—tolerance, patterns of increased use, physical dependence and, ultimately, addiction may develop—sometimes before the user even realizes it.
When a substance use disorder (SUD) develops, it can be extremely difficult to stop using drugs without professional treatment. Drug use can wreak havoc on the body and mind and may eventually become deadly. When you realize that you or someone you love has a problem, it’s essential to get help right away. There is no shame in admitting that you need treatment for drug use; doing so can be lifesaving.
Noticeable signs and symptoms of substance use addiction:
Feeling the need to use the drug regularly — daily or even several times a day
Intense cravings that dominate thoughts
Over time, needing more of the drug to get the same effect
Using larger amounts or for longer periods than intended
Spending money on the drug, even though you can't afford it
Not meeting obligations and school or work responsibilities
Cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug use
Continued use despite relationship or health problems
Doing things to get the drug that you normally wouldn't do, such as stealing
Spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering from a drug
Inability to cut down on use despite efforts
Experiencing physical and mental withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop
Recognizing unhealthy substance use in others
Sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish normal moodiness or anxiety from signs of drug use. Possible signs that someone is using drugs include:
Problems at home, school, or work
Failure to maintain responsibilities, frequently missing school or work, a sudden disinterest in school activities or work, or a drop in grades or work performance
Physical health issues
Lack of energy and motivation, weight loss or gain, sleeping too little or too much, changes in appetite, red eyes or dilated pupils
Neglected appearance
Lack of interest in clothing, hygiene, or looks
Changes in attitude or personality
Changes in habits, hobbies, and priorities; missing out on social or recreational activities
Changes in behaviors and emotions
Being secretive, or drastic changes in relationships with family and friends, involvement with criminal activity; Increased depression, aggression, or irritability
Money issues
Sudden requests for money without a reasonable explanation; or your discovery that money is missing or has been stolen or that items have disappeared from your home, indicating maybe they’re being sold to support drug u