Drugs
and alcohol abuse is an affliction of the brain. It begins when someone
takes a single dose of the substance and feels high. Taking repeated dosages of
the same substance leads to a build-up of tolerance, which makes the effects of
the substance more powerful, and the patient is more likely to relapse.
Symptoms of addiction include increased appetite, irritability, and agitation.
Drugs and alcohol are a form of self-medication, and the
effects of abuse may not be immediately evident. The effects of addiction can
last for years after the initial high. The physical and mental consequences of
addiction are countless. Inhibition decreases as the drugs flood the reward
center of the brain with dopamine, the "feel-good" hormone. However,
the brain becomes overloaded with dopamine, which impairs decision-making and
can lead to risky behaviors.
The effects of substance abuse can be long-term, and if not
treated, it can destroy a person's relationships and their careers. Although
addiction is a curable disease, many people do not seek treatment for it. The
lack of understanding about recovery programs makes it all the more difficult
for people to find treatment. Fortunately, there are a variety of effective
treatments for addiction, including counseling, government facilities, and
inpatient rehab.
Often, substance abuse is accompanied by a mental illness,
so it's best to get professional help for this illness. They can teach you
healthy coping methods and help you overcome your cravings. Research shows that
mental illness and addiction run in families. In order to help prevent future
occurrences of addiction, examine your risk factors and seek the assistance of
a therapist or psychologist. Biological and environmental factors may be
present in your family.
While addiction is a complex disease, there are many ways to
prevent addiction from developing. If you want to prevent your child from
becoming addicted to drugs or alcohol, start by assessing your family's
situation. It's a very common problem, and one that should not be taken
lightly. Those with mental health issues need professional help to make
informed choices. It is important to get professional help for your child,
because they are at higher risk for drug and alcohol addiction.
Behavioral problems are common with substance abuse. Not
only can the addiction affect your relationships with your family, but it can
also alter your brain chemistry. Your loved one's behavior may not be able to
make the right decisions, so they should be responsible for their actions. It's
important to seek treatment for this problem as it can lead to severe
consequences. While you might want to encourage your child to quit, it's not
the best idea to coerce them into changing their behaviors.
