April 01, 2024

They’re often used and misused in search of a “high,” or to boost energy, to improve performance at work or school, or to lose weight or control appetite. Synthetic cannabinoids, also called K2 or Spice, are sprayed on dried herbs and then smoked, but can be prepared as an herbal tea. Despite manufacturer claims, these are chemical compounds rather than “natural” or harmless products. These drugs can produce a “high” similar to marijuana and have become a popular but dangerous alternative.

Medical Professionals

It is common, if not normal, to go through a stage of engaging in substance use or an addictive behavior without believing you are addicted. This is so common, in fact, that it has a name, the pre-contemplation stage. You may need continuing care throughout your life, as SUD is a chronic condition. Know that your care team will be with you every step of the way.

• The goal of detoxification, also called “detox” or withdrawal therapy, is to enable you to stop taking the addicting drug as quickly and safely as possible.
• The relapse or recurrence of use process begins weeks or months before a person actually takes the substance.
• Education and awareness around the harm of using substances, along with the support of friends, parents, and caregivers, can help prevent SUDs.

Overdose Prevention

Many different types of medications are commonly prescribed to help treat substance use. The type of drug prescribed depends on many factors, including the phase of treatment a person is in. SUDs can lead to significant problems in all aspects of a person’s life. Patterns of symptoms resulting from substance use (drugs or alcohol) can help a doctor diagnose a person with a SUD or SUDs and connect them to appropriate treatment.

Health Care Providers

For another, they may inherit whatever genetic or biological vulnerabilities laid the groundwork for a parental addiction. The common but mistaken view of addiction as a brain disease suggests that there is some malfunction in the brain that leads to addiction. Studies show that repeated use of a substance (or an activity), encouraged by a surge in dopamine, creates changes in the wiring of the brain—and those changes are reversible after drug use stops. PsychiatryOnline subscription options offer access to the DSM-5-TR® library, books, journals, CME, and patient resources.

Medicine as part of treatment

Though there are risk factors for developing substance use disorder, anyone can develop it. Treatment is available for people struggling with substance use disorder. what is drug addiction, or substance use disorder, is a mental health condition that can have lifelong impacts. Though it’s a treatable illness, substance use disorder recovery often involves a lifelong cycle of relapse (recurrence of use), withdrawal, and abstinence. As with other diseases and disorders, the likelihood of developing an addiction differs from person to person, and no single factor determines whether a person will become addicted to drugs.

The Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain and Body

But the experience of pleasure is relative; it hinges in part on biology and very much on what else there is going on in a persons life that is meaningful or rewarding. The vast majority of children whose parents abuse alcohol or drugs do not grow up to do the same. However, they are at some increased risk for doing so, and there are a number of reasons why.

Effects of Drug Addiction

If you’re depressed, have trouble paying attention, or worry constantly, you have a higher chance of addiction. A history of trauma in your life also makes you more likely to have addiction. So you might need to take more of the drug to get the same good feeling.

• But with continued use, a person’s ability to exert self-control can become seriously impaired.
• Your treatment depends on the drug used and any related medical or mental health disorders you may have.
• These drugs are not all in the same category, but they share some similar effects and dangers, including long-term harmful effects.
• The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) has concrete diagnostic criteria for substance use disorders.

Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use

A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. Support can go a long way in making the recovery process more successful. Many organizations can help, depending on the type of addiction. SUD exists on a spectrum and may be mild, moderate or severe. No matter where you are, know that this condition is treatable and help is available when you’re ready. Substance use disorder can negatively affect a person’s relationships, finances, employment, and other aspects of their life.

Intensive Outpatient Treatment

The causes of substance use disorder are unknown, but risk factors have been identified. Rather than using the term “addiction,” the DSM-5 classifies substance use disorders. While the diagnostic criteria vary for each type, the DSM-5 describes these disorders as a problematic pattern of use of intoxicating substances that leads to significant impairment and distress. These symptoms can result in impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and tolerance/withdrawal. Addiction is a disease that affects your brain and behavior.

• You might take more than the regular dose of pills or use someone else’s prescription.
• Maintaining sobriety after treatment for substance use is no small undertaking.
• Alcohol use disorder is the most common type of SUD in the U.S.
• Detox may involve gradually reducing the dose of the drug or temporarily substituting other substances, such as methadone, buprenorphine, or a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone.

What are the types?

Some effects of drug abuse and addiction include changes in appetite, mood, and sleep patterns. More serious health issues such as cognitive decline, major organ damage, overdose, and death are also risks. Addiction to drugs while pregnant can lead to serious outcomes for both mother and child. While increased tolerance and dependence must be present for a formal substance use disorder diagnosis, many people become addicted to substances before developing physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms. https://ecosoberhouse.com/ is a brain disease that falls into the category of substance use disorders.

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