Many people do not realize that they fit the addiction definition. Over time, recreational drug use or drinking can quickly spiral out of control. Before long, the individual understands that they have an addiction and need help.
What Is the Addiction Definition?
According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine, the addiction definition covers anyone who has a chronic disease related to the brain’s reward and memory system. An addiction rewires the mind’s circuitry. This causes the individual’s reward systems to be changed. As someone develops an addiction, they become unable to control their cravings. Ultimately, they abuse the substance creating dependency. This can lead to significant problems. It can affect relationships, work, and social behaviors. Like many chronic diseases, people may experience remissions and relapses. For example, some common symptoms of addiction include:
- An inability to stop using
- Cravings
- Impaired control of behavior
- Inability to recognize how the addiction causes problems
- Changed or impaired emotional functions
Because addiction has both physical and psychological components, it is difficult to treat. Thus, merely focusing on one aspect to the neglect of the other will not resolve the issue. Instead, substance use disorder or addiction requires a holistic approach. But for many individuals, the first step is detoxification. This is the process of getting the drug or alcohol out of one’s system so treatment can begin. Serenity House Detox & Recovery offers treatment for a variety of substances including:
- Prescription Drugs
- Alcohol
- Heroin
- Cocaine
- Marijuana
What Causes an Addiction?
Researchers have found that about half the chance of becoming addicted is because of genetics. Individuals who have a family history of addiction are more likely to suffer from substance abuse. Furthermore, environmental factors and mental disorders can increase the chances that someone will develop an addiction.
Many people who have an addiction have a co-occurring mental disorder. Often, individuals use drugs or alcohol to alleviate the symptoms of their mental disorder. They must be treated for the addiction and the disorder through dual diagnosis treatment. By targeting the underlying cause of the addiction, patients can enjoy a better chance at recovery.
Other factors make addiction more likely. For instance, stress or traumas can make it harder for the individual to cope. Relationship problems or issues connecting to other people can also worsen an addiction. Also, being around friends or family members who abuse drugs can also increase the chances that someone will try drugs. Is it any wonder that many people have a drug or alcohol problem?
Finding Treatment Options for an Addiction
Once someone fits the addiction definition, help is available. Addiction recovery starts with detox. At a detox center, like Serenity House Detox & Recovery in Houston, withdrawal symptoms can be safely managed while the patient detoxes. Afterward, with assistance from the specialists, patients can begin the next step in their recovery process.
A detox center helps the recovery process along by using varying techniques such as:
- Preventing a relapse while the patient detoxes
- Providing medical support and care
- Offering therapy programs and support groups
- Inpatient rehab
- Ensuring a compassionate, supportive environment
- Recovery options that lay the foundation for a long, healthy recovery
An addiction can be treated and managed with the right detox experts in charge. So by starting drug detox, patients can lay the foundation for their recovery. To find out how detox can help you out of the bog of addiction. Call Serenity House Detox & Recovery today at 866.516.8356.
