Drug addiction is a complex disease that affects a person physically, emotionally and spiritually. It can cause significant damage to a person’s health, family, work and social life. In addition, drug use can lead to serious legal problems. Drug addiction is often accompanied by feelings of denial, shame and guilt. It can also interfere with the ability to think clearly and make decisions, and to control one’s emotions. It can also cause problems with eating and sleeping, and affect a person’s moods, attitudes and behavior.
Addiction is a complex disorder that develops differently in each person, depending on many factors, including genetics and family history, age and gender, and whether drugs are taken at an early or late stage of life. People who take drugs, especially opioids, are at high risk for overdose and other adverse health effects.
Most people who misuse drugs are not trying to harm themselves or others, but do not have the necessary skills to deal with stress and negative emotions. Curiosity and peer pressure are common motivators for drug abuse. Adolescence is a critical period of brain development that can increase the risk for experimentation with drugs. Drugs used during adolescence can also disrupt the normal development of the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain that helps people assess situations, make sound decisions and keep their emotions and desires in check.
Once a drug user becomes addicted, the drive to get more drugs takes over their life. They may not be able to stop using drugs even when they have significant personal and professional problems. Getting help for a drug addiction is essential, and recovery can begin at any point in the process.
There are several steps that people can take to help someone with a drug addiction, such as finding a doctor who specializes in addiction medicine or addiction psychiatry, or a mental health counselor who has experience treating substance use disorders. Many treatment programs also offer support groups for friends and families of addicts. In addition, many communities have designated drug abuse hotlines and telephone numbers for assistance.
Medications are available that can help treat some substance use disorders, including opioids, tobacco and alcohol. These medications can modify the activity of certain brain circuits, reduce cravings and relieve withdrawal symptoms. To help prevent drug addiction, it is important to follow prescription drug instructions exactly and never share or sell your medication. It is also a good idea to discuss other coping strategies with your doctor, such as stress reduction techniques, exercise and healthy sleep habits. The earlier drug addiction is treated, the more effective treatment will be. People who are concerned about a loved one’s drug use should express their love and concern and offer to go with them to treatment or meetings. It is helpful to avoid lectures, threats and emotional appeals, which can only make them feel defensive or resentful. It is important to remember that recovery from drug addiction requires time, effort and new coping skills.
