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Addiction is compulsive drug-seeking behaviour. It causes long-lasting changes in the brain. During addiction, a person can’t stop using a substance or engaging in a behaviour even though the user knows about its harmful effects.
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There are substance addiction and non-substance addiction. Some non-substance habits exist in gambling, food, shopping, and Internet gaming.
Many legal drugs like alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine cause substance addiction. We have more dangerous drugs like meth, cocaine, and other stimulants. Club drugs like MDMA or ecstasy. Hallucinogens like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and phencyclidine (PCP).
Opioids are drugs that include heroin, morphine, codeine, methadone, and fentanyl.
Depending on the drug, it can produce different signs and symptoms.
Substance addiction (abuse) affects all parts of the body, especially the brain. When a person consumes drugs or alcohol, the brain produces large amounts of dopamine. After repeated substance abuse, the brain can’t have average amounts of dopamine.
Addicted people may find no enjoyment in pleasurable activities like spending time with friends or family.
The primary indication of addiction may be:
- Problems at school or work. Missing school or work, a sudden disinterest in school activities or work, declining grades or work performance.
- Physical symptoms — lack of energy and motivation.
- Neglected appearance, Poor hygiene — lack of interest in clothing or looks
- Behavioural changes — being secretive about going out with friends or having relationship problems with family and friends.
- Money matters. Sudden requests about money without a reasonable explanation, you may discover that money is missing or items have disappeared from your home, indicating that maybe they’re being sold to support drug use.
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A person cannot stop using a substance even though it is causing health problems or personal problems. When we ask about substance use, the addicted person appears defensive.
Addiction causes a high financial and human toll on individuals and society. Healthcare costs for emergency medical services (outpatient and inpatient care) and long-term complications (lung cancer due to smoking).
The loss of productivity and associated welfare costs, fatal and non-fatal accidents, short-term and long-term mental and physical health problems, and suicides.
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Overcoming addiction is not easy, but it’s not impossible! If you or your loved one has a drug dependency, it’s vital to seek treatment as soon as possible. People often try to get better on their own, but this can be difficult and, in some cases, dangerous.
There are various ways to manage addiction:
· hospitalization for withdrawal management,
· Behavioral therapy and counselling
· Medical devices to treat withdrawal.
· Treating psychological factors, such as depression.
Some people find mutual-aid groups helpful, while others prefer self-help groups that include the participation of family members.
Addiction is a chronic condition. Each substance or behaviour requires different management techniques.
It’s important to recognize and understand addiction problems. To make the recovery process more accessible. A medical professional should assess whether a person has an addiction to substances or non-substances.
Medications help control symptoms of withdrawal and prevent relapses. It can improve a person’s social life.
Psychotherapy can help individuals with addiction better understand their behaviour and motivations, develop higher self-esteem, cope with stress, and address other psychiatric problems.
A person’s treatment plan is unique to their specific needs. You should never forget that you are not alone. Some people love you and care about you.
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It’s not only about addiction. If you have any problems, start by talking to someone who will support you and find a way to overcome the problem with their help. You need bravery, and you should be brave on this occasion.
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This post was previously published on medium.com.
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