Free Yourself from Addiction

Effects of Drug Use

Long-term drug use can have disastrous effects on the brain and body. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that individuals who continue to take drugs or other substances over an extended period of time have a harder time getting over an addiction that those who have used a substance for a short amount of time. Research proves that an addiction can change brain function, making it very difficult to control impulses and conquer negative behavior.

Fortunately, there is a way to get help. Conquering a drug addiction can be done with the help of trained professionals, who will get you the personalized treatment you need. Addiction comes in many forms for drug users, so treatments should be tailored to your specific needs.

Types of Addictions

When people think of addiction commonly the thought turns to drugs or alcohol. Any behavior that turns into a habit-forming obsession can be defined as an addiction. When this behavior or activity disrupts everyday life and interferes with responsibilities, an addiction begins to affect the quality of life. Some types of addictions include:

• Illicit drugs – cocaine, methamphetamines, heroin, marijuana, MDMA, LSD, etc
• Alcohol
• Prescription drugs – benzodiazepines, opioids, and stimulants
• Sex
• Gambling
• Kleptomania (compulsive stealing)
• Pyromania (compulsive arson)
• Eating

Results of Long-term Addictions

Using substances or engaging in the above listed activities for a long period of time can cause significant health problems. Those who struggle with an addiction may recognize that their health is failing, but they may be unable to stop. Some addictions such as pyromania or gambling can affect the health and safety of others.

An addiction is a complex illness and needs to be treated like one to regain control of life. If left untreated, injury or death could ensue. Criminal activity resulting in long-term punishment in jail could dramatically effect the course of your life.

Forms of Addiction Treatment

All addictions are treatable. No matter what kind of behavior or activity has a hold on you, it can be overcome. For success, treatment needs to be personalized to the person. Also, the addicted individual should remain in treatment as long as possible. The best treatment programs last at least 3 months. This will allow you to reform your habits and realize what environments or conditions trigger addictive behavior. Other types of treatments include:

• Detox programs – A treatment facility can provide a healthy way to get rid of the substances that have long been poisoning your body. Some programs are able to do this without any medicines, while other programs use medicines to lessen withdrawal symptoms.
• Residential treatment – Good for those who have severe addictions or health problems, a residential program allows medically trained professionals to focus on you specific needs and monitor your progress.
• Out patient programs – Some individuals cannot afford to spend time away from family or job responsibilities. Out-patient programs allow individuals to get professional help without a long-term stay at a facility.
• Group therapy – This therapy can include family and friends or other individuals who are struggling with similar addictions. A therapist presides over regular meetings and addresses the influences an addiction has and what the consequences are.
• Individual counseling – Using individual counseling is good for anyone struggling through an addiction. A counselor will allow you to rediscover life without a controlling habit governing you.

Involuntary and Voluntary Rehab

Treatment does not need to be voluntary to be successful. While recognizing your addiction is a definite part of the treatment process, many who have been involuntarily committed to a treatment facility have gone on to beat their addiction successfully. If you think you might be addicted to a substance or behavior, contact addiction watch right away. You need to be in control of your life. Don’t let your addiction define who you are.

Sources: National Institute for Drug Abuse