Drug addiction is an addiction that primarily effects the behavioral system of the body. The addiction affects brain structures involved in emotional memory, reward, motivation and control. It also can affect physical aspects of behavior such as appetite, sleep patterns and muscle tension. Addiction to drugs or alcoholism can also occur due to drug withdrawal symptoms, or due to repeated drug use.
Addiction treatment centers try to help addicts overcome the withdrawal symptoms so they will be able to lead normal lives once again. Drug addiction treatments are often administered in outpatient facilities where patients can return for detoxification and follow-up sessions after completing the program. Inpatient care is usually more expensive than out patient treatment programs, but may be necessary for those who have health issues or cannot afford long term rehabilitation. Some drug addiction treatments are very expensive due to intensive treatment, and there are some who have a waiting list due to the demand for their services. Long term rehab programs can be very expensive and most people who have undergone these programs tend to have to take their medications in order to prevent relapse and get their lives back on track.
After completing any long term treatment program, many people find it extremely difficult to maintain abstinence from drugs. This is when they should seek the help of a drug addiction treatment center to get a “second chance”. Drug addicts have already lost one opportunity at recovery, and it’s important to do everything in their power to ensure they don’t lose another. Unfortunately, it’s very rare that people are able to overcome this problem alone and with therapy or medication. It takes many years for these addicts to come out of their addiction and regain their lives, and many times they need professional help before they can complete the necessary steps to permanently overcome their addiction.