Drugs and Alcohol

Drug and alcohol addictions have been present for as long as the substances have existed and are a very serious matter. Today, there are more treatment options available than ever before for those who suffer.

What causes an addiction to develop? No one knows for sure, but factors such as genetics and exposure have been linked. Prior conditions such as depression or anxiety and a need to “self-medicate” may also play a role. Once the addiction begins, it often increases as a result of the need to control withdrawal symptoms when the substance is not taken.

A variety of psychological symptoms manifest from drug and alcohol addictions. Feelings of fear and inadequacy occur when the substance is not in use and are quickly mollified and replaced with a sense of euphoria or recklessness when the substance is taken again.

Treatment for drug and alcohol addictions is not simple – often it requires a number of techniques and methods, and a patient may be subject to multiple relapses. The first step in treatment is to seek advice from a medical professional who can help determine the best course of action.

5 Things You Need To Know

  1. Statistics show alcohol and drug problems occur in one out of every eight Americans.
  2. With advances in medical science, drug addiction has come to be viewed as a disease of the brain and not simply a social problem or a weakness in a person’s character.
  3. With alcohol addiction, women will usually develop the problem later in life than men.
  4. Many who suffer from drug and alcohol addiction often find their condition leaking into all parts of their life – such as home or work. Often, it is family members or coworkers who bring the addiction to light.
  5. Alcohol abuse is the most commonly reported type of substance abuse, but alcohol is often used in tandem with other drugs, such as marijuana or heroin.

3 Questions You Need to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the warning signs of an addiction? It’s often difficult to spot an addiction in yourself, but if you believe you might have one or have been told you have one, consult a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
  2. Where do I go and what do I do to get help? A doctor can point you to the best resources in helping with drug and alcohol addiction, from treatment centers and counseling to group therapy sessions.
  3. What can I do to prevent a relapse? Ask your doctor how you can build a strong support system and where to find resources that will help you through the difficult times in dealing with your addiction.

    4. Also Known As: Drug addiction, alcoholism, drug abuse, alcohol abuse

Your health is too important to take lightly. The information on this website is intended to start you down the path to living well, but it’s only just the beginning.

Each of us is unique, and we all deserve the individual attention that only a health care professional can provide. So do what’s in your best interest - take the next step and find doctors or surgeons in your area today.