Substance addiction is defined as an inability to control the use of substances despite negative consequences to health, safety and relationships. People with substance addiction feel unable to control their use of substances, even if they are aware of their negative impact. It is characterized by a compulsive need to acquire and use drugs or alcohol in a continuous pattern, despite the consequences that may follow from such behavior. Substance addiction can affect anyone regardless of gender, age, social status, or economic standing.
Substance addiction is a complex disorder. People who suffer from it often face a range of physical, psychological, social, and spiritual issues. It is usually the result of various biological and environmental factors. Substance addiction causes significant stress for those affected and can take a severe toll on their health, finances, relationships, and career. It can also lead to other physical, psychological, and social consequences, such as incarceration, loss of support from family and friends, legal difficulties, and increased risk of developing more serious illnesses or disorders.
There is no single cause of substance addiction. Generally, those affected are vulnerable to genetic, psychological, environmental, and social factors. Genetics can play a role in substance addiction, as some people are more prone to developing the disorder based on genetic makeup. People who have relatives with substance abuse or addiction are at higher risk of developing the disorder themselves. In addition, psychological factors, such as stress, depression, anxiety, and past trauma, can significantly increase the risk of developing a substance addiction.
The most common substances that people become addicted to include alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and other opioids. Alcohol addiction is often characterized by the inability to limit drinking, cravings for alcohol, withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, and an inability to reduce or stop drinking despite negative consequences. Similarly, marijuana addiction is characterized by a compulsive need to use the drug and an inability to stop using it even if it causes detrimental effects to health and relationships. People who become addicted to opioids will often show similar signs of addiction to those who are addicted to alcohol, and will experience similar withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug.
Some of the most common symptoms of substance addiction include withdrawal, tolerance, chemical-induced changes in brain pathways, impaired control over drug use, continued use despite negative consequences, and cravings. Withdrawal symptoms may include insomnia, anxiousness, irritability, nausea, sweating, and loss of appetite. If a person experiences tolerance, they will be need to take more and more of the substance in order to achieve the same desired effect. Chemical-induced changes in brain pathways refer to the changes that occur in the reward pathways of the brain due to substance use. This can lead to increased cravings, which increase the likelihood of relapse. Lastly, impaired control and continued use despite negative consequences can lead to isolation, a decrease in productivity, decreased motivation, and an increase in health and emotional problems.
Although substance addiction has severe consequences, it is an incredibly treatable disorder. Treatment depends on the severity of the disorder and may include medications, counseling, or a combination of the two. Therapy may involve individual or group sessions, and may focus on a range of topics, such as identifying triggers, developing healthier coping skills, and developing a support system. Those suffering from a substance addiction may also benefit from attending support or 12-step programs such as Alcohol Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous.
Substance addiction can be a difficult disorder to overcome, but recovery is possible. With an appropriate treatment plan and dedication to recovery, those affected can become and remain sober. It is important to note, however, that not everyone will respond to treatment in the same way, so finding the right treatment plan is essential. With the right support and treatment plan, a person suffering from a substance addiction is able to achieve long-term recovery and live a healthy and fulfilling life.