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DRUG addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is a chronic, progressive disease of the brain that affects a person’s ability to stop using alcohol and/or drugs, despite experiencing negative impacts, for example, problems in relationships, work, health, and more.
Common signs of drug addiction include: Struggling to control substance use (amount, length of time using, and frequency). A desire to quit without being able to follow through, cravings and withdrawal.
There are many misconceptions surrounding drug addiction and those who struggle with it. It is important to remember that addiction is not a moral failing or due to a lack of willpower or discipline. Addiction is a disease and is not a fault of the person experiencing it. There is help available for those who need it.
The disease model of addiction
The disease model of addiction uses biological, neurological, and genetic reasoning to explain the development of addictive behaviours. This approach further supports that addiction is a disease of the brain. That said, the disease model of addiction does have its limitations because of its exclusion of environmental, psychological, and social factors. Drug addiction is a multifaceted illness and multiple angles must be considered when discussing and addressing the condition.
How does addiction change the brain?
To understand how addiction changes the brain, it is important to know how drugs impact the brain. Drugs primarily affect what’s known as the reward centre of the brain. The reward centre is made up of various structures and pathways that are activated when you experience something enjoyable or rewarding. The brain releases the neurotransmitter dopamine, a chemical responsible for feelings of pleasure.
Over time, drug addiction can physically alter the brain. In fact, brain imaging studies of people who have substance use disorder show these physical changes in the brain, including structures vital to judgment, decision-making, learning and memory, and behavioural control.
Is addiction chronic?
Addiction is defined as a chronic, progressive disease. This means that it is often lifelong and not curable, and a relapse is possible, although many people can go on to manage addiction with proper treatment and support.
Is addiction a choice?
The first time trying a substance is a choice, a conscious decision you make. But becoming addicted to the substance is not a choice, it is what happens over time. Drug addiction is not a moral failing or the result of low willpower. Addiction is a disease, and a serious one. Nearly 841 000 people have died in America since 1999 from a drug overdose.
What causes drug addiction?
Drug addiction is caused by a variety of factors, including someone’s genetic makeup, the environment they find themselves in, and developmental experiences. Psychological factors, such as having a mental health illness, also contribute.
Genetics
Genetics plays the largest role in the chance of someone developing a substance use disorder. Genetics accounts for 40%-70% of the risk if a parent or close relative has an addiction.
Environment
In addition to one’s genetic makeup, the environment they inhabit can further contribute to the chance they develop a drug addiction. For example, children who grow up around parents or others who struggle with drug addiction are more likely to develop a drug addiction than others without this influence.
If you notice anyone is hooked to drugs or alcohol, get them help as soon as possible by visiting the nearest health care centre or the police. (Source: verywellhealth.com)
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