7 Things You Should Know About Addiction

Doctor William C Lloyd Healthgrades Medical Reviewer
Medically Reviewed By William C. Lloyd III, MD, FACS
Written By Healthgrades Editorial Staff on September 14, 2022
  • Woman Taking Medication From Containers On Bedside Table
    It's not a weakness.
    The most important thing you can understand about addiction is that it's a serious, chronic and progressive disease — but one that can be successfully managed through continued treatment and support.

    Although the initial decision to use drugs is voluntary for most people, continued substance abuse is not a sign of little willpower or a lack of morals. Drugs contain chemicals that cause brain changes over time, actually altering the brain's communication system and disrupting the way the nerve cells normally receive, send and process information. These changes interfere with one's self control and the ability to resist intense impulses for further substance use.
  • Man at counseling session
    Withdrawal should be supervised.
    When you are ready to address an addiction problem, going "cold turkey" may seem like a good start. But immediate abstinence from certain substances can result in withdrawal symptoms and, potentially, serious medical consequences. The withdrawal process should take place under medical supervision at a detoxification center, with professional consultation on next treatment steps.
  • Female doctor discussing with a patient
    There is more than one way to treatment.
    Fighting addiction alone is a very difficult undertaking, and though it may seem easier to go it alone now, it can make for a much harder road to recovery. Most only achieve long-term success with some sort of professional help. Depending on your history with addiction and physical condition, this may begin with a rehabilitation program in a treatment facility or may include outpatient treatment with a health professional or mutual support group.

    Many people assume that Alcoholics Anonymous is the only option for continued success in fighting addiction. And while AA and the Twelve Steps is a well-respected program that has helped countless people, there have been significant advances in substance abuse treatment with alternate, effective options, including behavioral and psychological treatments, as well as medication. Talk to a professional about the best available options for you.
  • support group
    Recovery is ongoing.
    Managing addiction is a process, and every person progresses at his own pace. Most residential or outpatient treatment programs recommend more than 90 days of participation for maintaining positive outcomes.
  • Approved Insurance Coverage
    There is more coverage for treatment.
    Many people with addiction fear they can't afford the necessary treatment to get better. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) includes many provisions to improve and expand treatment for people with substance use disorders, covering them as comprehensively as any other disease. Talk to your doctor or insurance provider to find out more about available coverage for the treatment you need.
  • Friends having wine at restaurant
    Relapses are only setbacks.
    Relapses are common with addiction and should not be seen as a failure, but as part of the process. Understanding your triggers, and taking steps to control them, are key to recovery.

    Relapse triggers include:

    • Stress and other emotions, such as fear, frustration or anxiety

    • Environment (such as loud noises or social events)

    • Exposure (people or events that bring you in close proximity to the substance)

    Of course, you can't avoid all the triggers in your daily life, but through medical and/or psychological therapy, you can develop skills to help you deal with them—skills that are not easily maintained on your own.

    Keep in mind another relapse does not mean things are hopeless, rather it's time to reinstate or re-structure your treatment to help you regain control and move toward recovery.
  • female friends holding hands across table with coffee
    Accepting help is critical.
    There is a misconception that someone has to hit "rock bottom" before he or she will be ready to seek treatment for addiction. But often, rock bottom is too late, resulting in job loss, illness, arrests, injury, even death. And research shows that identifying substance abuse problems early is much more effective in successfully treating addiction.

    If someone you know is struggling with addiction, even what may seem to be a "mild" form, don't wait. Find a way to reach out to let him know you care and want to help, with no judgment attached.

    For those struggling, find someone you trust you can talk to. Your loved ones want you to be healthy and happy, and the more you engage them in your recovery, the better your success rate will be.
7 Things You Should Know About Addiction
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Last Review Date: 2022 Sep 14
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.