Understanding Addiction – First Step In Getting The Right Help

For someone who is not addicted to drugs understanding addiction can be very challenging. Many people assume that those who are in the throes of this disease could simply stop if they were simply motivated enough to do so or had enough moral principles to give up their vices. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Over time, drug use changes the brain in ways that narrow the addict’s attention so that it focuses on getting the next high. It also makes it difficult to quit once that pattern has been established. Drug addiction can be successfully treated as long as the addict gets the right help for the problem.

Getting support from friends and family is an important part of the process. To help get started, check out the answers to these frequently asked questions about drug rehab and addiction to understand more about the problem:

What Exactly Is Drug Addiction?

Addiction is a chronic disease that is responsible for compulsive drug use. Someone who is an addict will continue to seek out drugs and use them, despite negative consequences, either to him or herself personally or to family members and friends. The initial decision to use drugs may be voluntary for an addict, but changes in the brain interfere with an addict’s ability to resist the intense urges to take drugs.

Does Everyone Who Takes Drugs Become Addicted?

Not everyone who takes drugs becomes an addict. Risk factors for addiction are influenced by a number for factors, including biology, the person’s age and social development. The earlier a person starts to experiment with drugs, the more likely it is that he or she will become addicted. Other factors, such as peer pressure, stress, physical and sexual abuse, and general quality of life also play a role.

How Does A Drug Treatment Center Help An Addict To Get Sober?

Luxury rehab centers allow clients to focus their attention solely on recovering from their addiction. This does not mean that they are going on vacation when they check into a facility. Only people who are prepared to do the work required to become and stay sober will be successful at moving forward into a positive new life.

All clients are screened on arrival to assess their physical, emotional, and spiritual status. The information collected from the assessment is used to develop an individual recovery plan that is tailored to each client’s needs.

The environment is highly structured, and clients are expected to take responsibility for their actions as part of the treatment process. Addicts get very good at deflecting blame away from themselves as part of their illness. The ability to step up and take responsibility going forward is an important part of getting well.

Friends and family members can help to provide ongoing support for a loved one who is in recovery by understanding that they live with a chronic disease that must be constantly monitored.

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