30/09/2022
What is drug addiction? What are the causes of drug addiction? How many stages does drug addiction have? Is drug addiction can be cured?
Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. It is considered both a complex brain disorder and a mental illness.There are many factors that may contribute to drug addiction including genetic and environmental influences, socio-economic status, personal behavioural patterns etc., but most professionals within the field of addiction have agreed that there are four main stages of drug addiction: experimentation, regular use, high-risk use, and addiction or dependency.
Feeling that you have to use the drug regularly — daily or even several times a day
Having intense urges for the drug that block out any other thoughts
Over time, needing more of the drug to get the same effect
Taking larger amounts of the drug over a longer period of time than you intended
Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug
Spending money on the drug, even though you can't afford it
Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities, or cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug use
Continuing to use the drug, even though you know it's causing problems in your life or causing you physical or psychological harm
Doing things to get the drug that you normally wouldn't do, such as stealing
Driving or doing other risky activities when you're under the influence of the drug
Spending a good deal of time getting the drug, using the drug or recovering from the effects of the drug
Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop taking the drug.
Most professionals within the field of addiction have agreed that there are four main stages of drug addiction: experimentation, regular use, high-risk use, and addiction or dependency.
Many people will never move beyond Stage 1 experimentation, but most who progress beyond Stage 2 will, in fact, develop an addiction. Below is a breakdown of the 4 stages of drug addiction so that you can learn how to identify symptoms and signs of addiction, or in the case that it has already progressed, what to do about it.
Stage 1: Drug Experimentation
Experimentation among adults can occur when changing or expanding social groups, or getting a new job with a new work culture that might accept or encourage drug use. Regardless of when and why you start experimentation, every case must be considered on an individual basis. For example, if drugs are introduced to an individual at a time when they are particularly vulnerable, there is a greater chance drug use will continue and develop into a serious issue. Or if experimental drug use results in positive outcomes i.e. social acceptance, relief from stress, etc. This positive reinforcement could easily push the person onto the next stage.
Stage 2: Social or Regular Use
Stage two represents somewhat of a fork in the road for a lot of people. While it is true that some people will be able to engage in the regular use of drugs without developing a dependence, the risk for substance abuse greatly increases during this stage. With regular use also comes a subsequent increase in the likelihood of participating in high-risk behaviours like driving while under the influence, emotional volatility, or depression.
It is very important during this stage to keep an eye out for changes in mood and behaviour, shifts in priorities, or early physical symptoms of addiction.
Stage 3: Risky Use/Abuse
The transition between stages 2 and 3 might occur quite quickly and be difficult to detect in yourself or your loved on. It is during this stage that the drug user begins to prioritise drug use over other facets of their life and becomes unaware or unafraid of the consequences of their behaviour. The warning signs associated with Stage 3 addiction are: physical or psychological cravings and depression/irritability or fatigue if the drug can not be accessed.
Stage 4: Drug Addiction and Chemical Dependencies
Addiction and chemical dependencies is the final stage of drug addiction. Characteristics of this stages include continued use of drugs regardless of the negative consequences, severed impacts to physical and mental health, poor performance at work or job loss, or engaging in criminal activity. Personal relationship are jeopardised or completely lost as a result of drug use.
During stage four, the addict has gotten to a point that they would have never previously imagined when they began with experimentation. If they are capable of identifying their problem, they are rarely willing or able to take actions towards correcting it. During Stage 4 peer and family support is important, but is also a serious emotional strain and sometimes even an impossibility.
Can addiction be treated successfully?
Yes, addiction is a treatable disorder. Research on the science of addiction and the treatment of substance use disorders has led to the development of research-based methods that help people to stop using drugs and resume productive lives, also known as being in recovery.
Can addiction be cured?
Like other chronic diseases such as heart disease or asthma, treatment for drug addiction usually isn't a cure. But addiction can be managed successfully. Treatment enables people to counteract addiction's disruptive effects on their brain and behavior and regain control of their lives.
We encourage everyone to avoid and stop abusing drugs.And we also encourage parents to consult their children if they have any symptoms to save them from resulting in to addiction.
If you have any questions feel free to contact 03455080351, 03479463062, 03353598988,
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