Many experts have discussed, analyzed and described various forms of drug abuse and addiction and the differences therein. Common sense should prevail in any case regarding substance abuse or the possibility someone would need substance abuse treatment. Most people are quite capable of determining the differences on their own without all the rhetoric that surrounds the subject of drug and alcohol abuse and addiction. Simply put, anytime someone uses any drug beyond the desired effect it’s classified as substance abuse and indicates addiction and the need for substance abuse treatment.
Alcohol, drugs or any substance that alters the normal function of the body has a high likelihood it will create dependence by the sheer nature of the mechanics of addiction.
Any family suffering the hellish nightmare of drug abuse or addiction might be wonder why on earth a loved one chooses drugs or alcohol over family, friends or job. The drug addict or alcoholic struggles with finances, relationships and often has trouble with the law. Irresponsible behavior, regardless the degree is a glaring red flag for you in case you’re wondering. No one wants to grow up to be a pariah on the family and looked upon as a problem. Although any drug addict who is abusing drugs or is addicted will provide any number of justifications or reasons things “always happen to me”.
Most parents or family members with no reality on substance abuse and addiction, who have lived a responsible life, and provided a loving, nurturing environment for the drug addict cannot understand the depths of substance abuse and addiction and fault themselves as an attempt to take responsibility. This leads to enabling in attempt to help the addict “get on their feet” or “if I don’t do something they will be on the street”. These actions perpetuate the problem, worsening the addiction and reduce the chance a drug addict or alcoholic will seek substance abuse treatment.
Drug abuse is not a matter of moral weakness or faulty willpower. It is a vicious cycle that actually causes changes in the brain, nutritional deficiencies and physical addiction leading to stronger and stronger impulses to use. Without the help of an effective substance abuse treatment or drug rehabilitation program, drug abuse and addiction can destroy families and take lives. There is hope. Find out how to recognize the signs and symptoms of drug abuse or addiction in someone you care about or yourself. With the right support and treatment, the road to recovery is possible.
What is drug abuse and drug addiction?
Drug abuse, also known as substance abuse, according to most experts involves the repeated and excessive use of chemical substances to achieve a certain effect. These substances may be “street” or “illicit” drugs, illegal due to the high potential for drug addiction or substance abuse. At Addiction Watch our addiction recovery counselors believe this to be an inaccurate description that minimizes the dangers associated with substance abuse and negate the need to seek help in a substance abuse treatment center. Any substance used beyond achieving the desired effect or for non-medical reasons even on time is considered abuse.
Drug addiction would be the repeated excessive use of chemicals or substances to achieve a certain effect. Most prescription drugs, (although obtained with a prescription) when used for pleasure or for medical reasons have a high risk of addiction. More drug addicts seek substance abuse treatment for prescription drug addiction in the United States today than heroin addiction and cocaine addiction combined.
Different drugs have different effects. Some, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, may produce an intense “rush” and initial feelings of boundless energy. Others, such as heroin, benzodiazepines or the prescription oxycontin, may produce excessive feelings of relaxation and calm. What most drugs have in common, though, is overstimulation of the pleasure center of the brain. With time, the brain’s chemistry is actually altered to the point where not having the drug becomes extremely uncomfortable and even painful. This compelling urge to use, addiction, becomes more and more powerful, disrupting work, relationships, and health.
As stated earlier prescription drug abuse is more prevalent than street drug use. When used appropriately, prescription drugs can have beneficial effects medically, although used over abundantly in today’s society. Prescription drugs in the opiate family, such as vicodin (hydrocodone) and oxycontin, are often prescribed for chronic pain or recovery from surgery. Benzodiazapines, such as valium or Xanax, are prescribed to treat anxiety. The problem arises when these drugs begin to be used ‘off label’. Furthermore, prescription drugs provide an easy access point to other family members susceptible to abuse and addiction.
