What exactly is drug addiction? Addiction is a condition characterized by uncontrollable compulsive drug seeking and abuse despite significant changes and negative consequences in the central nervous system which can last for many years. A primary symptom of drug addiction is being unable to control the urge to use drugs even if there are strong negative consequences associated with this use. It is important that an individual seeking addiction treatment undergoes both psychological and medical screening to determine whether or not they have a drug problem. Many times the person has only recently begun abusing drugs meaning that they may not be able to recognize that they have a problem with drugs and that they are abusing their body and/or mind instead of their drug.
Drugs that have been abused can be used for various reasons in the body of an addict including relieving pain providing pleasure and reducing feelings of stress. It is often difficult for an individual to realize that they are using drugs because these are the things that we all do on a daily basis. The effects of drugs on the human brain can range from short-term effects that can be overcome easily to the effects that can lead to serious health issues. Most drug addicts even those who do not use in the presence of others have learned to associate the use of drugs with certain feelings and to associate these feelings with a sense of pleasure or reward. In addition most drug abusers believe that their use is normal and acceptable in a social setting. Unfortunately this is not the case for everyone who uses drugs since the effects of drugs can range from the short-term to the long-term depending on the individual and their own individual needs.
When a person decides to enter a drug addiction treatment program it is important that the individual understands how to avoid future drug problems. Most programs are designed to help an individual to reduce drug use while at the same time providing support to the individual to cope with withdrawal symptoms. These programs can also help the individual overcome feelings of shame and guilt associated with drug abuse and addiction and to build a better self image and self esteem in order to move forward with their lives without the use of drugs. It is often very difficult for someone to admit that they have a problem with drugs and that they need professional help but if an individual chooses to seek help they can expect to face some difficult challenges but they can also expect a greater sense of satisfaction as well as they move forward in life.
