Drug addiction is often referred to as a substance abuse disorder. Addiction can happen to anyone, although research suggests genetics can play a part in whether you’re likely to become an addict or not.
The Basics Of Drug Addiction
Any type of addiction, whether to drugs, food, or even sex, is a disease. When you have this particular disease, your brain and your body will crave your drug of choice. More specifically, your body will be craving the high that goes with taking the drug. It can make you feel more alert, confident, reduce pain, and even improve focus.
It’s natural to see these effects as positive and want to replicate them. Unfortunately, in doing so, you will increase your dependency on the drug. Once you can barely think of anything but your next hit, you are truly addicted. The strange thing is, even though you know that a particular drug is bad for you, you’ll still crave it and take it. Remember, drug addiction is a disease. Your state of mind will be altered, encouraging you to think of your next supply of drugs over any other thoughts.
How Drug Addiction Starts
Drug addiction can start anywhere and at any time. In many cases, it starts when you sample an illegal drug for the first time. You’re probably trying it because friends are and it’s a social thing to do. You can’t tell before you try it. However, if you are pre-disposed ot addiction, you’ll want to use the drug again, and your use will gradually become more frequent.
To maintain the desired rush or state of high, you’ll need more concentrated doses and, eventually, will move onto stronger ‘hard’ drugs. At this stage, it will be very difficult to go without your chosen drug and your work and social life are likely to be affected. It’s not easy to defeat drug addiction; that’s why many people turn to online conquering dependency courses.
Spotting Drug Addiction
The biggest issue for drug addicts is that they don’t see themselves as addicts. Denial will stop you, or a loved one, from getting the help you need. If someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, they are likely to display the following symptoms:
● Losing interest in work and/or failing to turn up
● Loss of weight, they may have red sunken eyes
● Reduction in energy levels and motivation
● Start to neglect their appearance
● Becoming more secretive
● Financial problems: They will always be looking out for opportunities to take money
If you suspect someone you know has a drug addiction, you’ll also notice that they have mood swings.
Elevated highs are normal while on the drug, followed by crashing lows.
They may also be paranoid or appear to be constantly anxious. As the drugs wear off, users can be very depressed, they may even vomit or appear confused. In some cases, this can lead to violent behaviour.
Summing Up
Drug addiction is a serious issue which affects millions of people every year. The only way to deal with it is to know what the symptoms are and to get help. It all starts with the addict being prepared to admit they have an issue. If they can do that, you can help them regain their life.