Drug addiction also called substance use disorder is a dependence on a legal or illegal drug or medication Drug addiction isn’t about just heroin, cocaine, or other illegal drugs but getting addicted to alcohol, nicotine, painkillers, and other legal substances. When you’re addicted, you’re not able to control your drug use and may continue using the drug despite the harm it causes. Drug addiction can cause an intense craving for the drug. Drug addiction causes serious long-term consequences including problems with physical and mental health, relationships, employment and the law.
Signs and Symptoms of Addiction:
- Having intense urges for the drug that block out any other thoughts.
- Taking larger amounts of the drug over a longer period of time than you intended.
- Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug.
- Spending money on the drug, even though you can't afford it.
- Cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug use.
- Continuing to use the drug, even though you know it's causing problems in your life.
- Doing things to get the drug that you normally wouldn't do, such as stealing.
- Driving or doing other risky activities when you're under the influence of the drug.
- Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug.
- Spending a good deal of time getting the drug and using the drug.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing a drug addiction requires assessment by multiple professionals, such as a general practitioner, psychiatrist, and psychologist. Addiction treatment can vary according to the specific drug, a successful program often includes different elements, such as:
Two types of therapy have been widely tested and shown to be effective in treating depression
1.Detoxification: also called “detox” or withdrawal therapy, is to enable you to stop taking the addicting drug as quickly and safely as possible.
2.Behavior therapy: a form of psychotherapy done by a psychologist or psychiatrist on an Individual, a family or a group helps to identify the root causes of drug use, repair relationships, and teach ways to cope with drug cravings.
3.Medication may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms, prevent relapse, or treat any co-occurring mental health condition such as depression or anxiety.
4.Self-help groups: Self-help support groups helps the recovering individual meet others with the same addictive disorder which often boosts motivation and reduces feelings of isolation.
