Addiction is a complex mental health disease that affects millions of people worldwide. Addiction can take on in a variety of forms including substances (drugs and alcohol) and behavioral types (shopping, gambling, sex, technology). While I have seen a decline in stigma, there is inevitably a feeling of moral/personal failing. I often find myself spending a lot of time explaining addiction to patients as a chronic mental health disease, not something you can “will” your way through. Just like with any other chronic disease, addiction requires treatment, support, and ongoing care for recovery.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is characterized by the compulsive use of substance or engagement in behavior, despite harmful consequences. Our brains are developed to seek out dopamine; therefore, any substance or activity that increases this neurotransmitter has the potential for become addictive. Dopamine acts on the brain’s reward system which becomes hijacked, leading to a cycle of cravings and dependence. The brain undergoes rewiring making it difficult to break this cycle without help.
Causes of Addiction
Addiction is influenced by a range of factors, including:
Genetics: Research shows that genetics can play a significant role in addiction, making some individuals more vulnerable to developing it. This means, if there is a family history of addiction, one might have a higher risk of developing it as well.
Environment: Family dynamics, peer influence, trauma, and stress can all contribute to the development of addiction.
Mental Health: Conditions like depression, anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD often coexist with addiction, creating a cycle where individuals use substances or behaviors to self-medicate.
Types of Addiction
Addiction can involve both substances and behaviors. Some of the most common types include:
Alcohol addiction: Characterized by an inability to control drinking despite negative consequences.
Drug addiction: Involves both illegal drugs (like heroin or cocaine) and prescription medications (such as opioids or benzodiazepines).
Behavioral addictions: These include gambling, gaming, shopping, and other activities that trigger compulsive behaviors.
Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
Addiction can manifest differently depending on the person and substance or behavior involved. However, some common signs include:
Loss of control: Unable to stop using or engaging in harmful behavior
Cravings: Strong urges to use the substance or engage in the behavior
Neglect of responsibilities: Reduced participation in work, school,or family obligations
Continued use despite harm: Continuing the addictive behavior despite physical, emotional, or social consequences.
Tolerance and withdrawal: Needing more of the substance to achieve the same effect and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using it.
The Importance of Treatment
Recovery from addiction is possible, but it often requires a combination of treatments that address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of the disease. Effective treatment typically includes:
Detoxification
Medication: there are medication that can be used to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms for certain substances
Therapy and Counseling: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and other modalities help address the underlying emotional and psychological triggers of addiction.
Support Groups
Overcoming Stigma
One of the most challenging features of treating addiction is addressing the stigma around it. I often ask if one would judge a diabetic for their blood sugar being out of control. Sure there are certain things that a person can do to help their blood sugar (like decreasing dietary sugar); however, is it truly their fault that they are in the hospital due to high blood sugar? It is certainly easier to look at physiological diseases and not blame the person for having them versus a mental health condition with the same disease process automatically deemed as “within our control”.
By shifting the narrative and understanding that addiction is a disease that requires treatment, we can encourage more people to seek the help that they need to recover.
Finding Hope in Recovery
Recovery is a lifelong journey, and it is different for everyone. It involves not only stopping the addictive behavior but also rebuilding a fulfilling life. This often includes repairing relationships, finding new coping strategies for stress, and engaging in meaningful activities. The key to successful recovery is access to the right resources and ongoing support.
Conclusion
Addiction is a complex and chronic disease; however, just like other chronic diseases, it is treatable. With the right approach-combining medical intervention, therapy, and support-people struggling with addiction can recover and lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Let’s break the stigma and encourage open dialogue to help people get the access to the care that they need. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, remember that hope and help is always available.
At Sage Integrative Psychiatry, we offer compassionate, expert treatment for addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. Reach out today to begin your journey toward recovery.
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