What is Alcohol/Drug Abuse Addiction Disorder?
Substance abuse and addiction has always been a hot topic among researchers and mental health professionals.
In broad terms, addiction is defined as a condition caused by the periodic or continuous consumption of a substance. But addiction doesn’t just occur in relation to substance use.
Addiction can be either psychological (cravings, impulse control problems) or physical (nausea, vomiting, sweating, restlessness).
Depending on the nature of the problem, people who struggle with addiction can also engage in activities such as sex, gambling, shopping, or eating. These behaviors are performed in a compulsive manner which generates problems in other areas of life, such as work, relationships, and health.
Experts talk about addiction when the person displays a predictable pattern of substance use fueled by the sense of relief and satisfaction associated with this behavior.
If left unchecked, alcohol/substance abuse and addiction disorder can cause numerous health-related issues, not to mention the impact this problem can have on our personal and professional life.
Signs of Alcohol/Drug Abuse and Addiction Disorder
- Loss of interest in activities that don’t involve substance use or problematic behaviors
- Cravings – a powerful desire to consume substances or engage in problematic behaviors.
- Inability to control cravings, despite being fully aware of the problems that result from substance use and addiction
- Depression
- Denial
- Poor personal hygiene
- Reckless, self-destructive behaviors
- Anger and irritability
- Poor quality sleep
- Changes in physical appearance
It’s also important to note the difference between abuse and addiction. Substance abuse refers to the incorrect and excessive use of a substance. That means not all people who abuse substances are addicted.
In fact, addiction comes as a natural consequence of the long-term abusive use of a substance.
How is Alcohol/Drug Abuse and Addiction Disorder Treated?
Overcoming addictions isn’t easy, which is why healthcare professionals often resort to an integrative approach to treating this health issue.
Given that people who struggle with addiction find it impossible to control their problematic behaviors, it’s essential for them to benefit from both professional help and social support from their close ones.
Medication
Drug therapy helps people with addiction disorder overcome the tough withdrawal period and manage depression and anxiety associated with the life changes they wish to make.
For severe cases of alcohol or drug addiction, experts recommend inpatient treatment where people who suffer from this condition can receive 24-hour care.
It’s also important to mention that in the case of chronic addiction, giving up substance use abruptly can lead to severe medical complications and even death. For example, heroin addicts who wish to overcome their problem receive methadone pills to reduce the severe withdrawal symptoms.
Psychotherapy
Many psychologists believe that addictions are the consequence of unfulfilled emotional needs and poor emotional regulation.
In layman’s terms, we resort to substance use to fill an emotional void or cope with the distress associated with unpleasant emotions such as anxiety, guilt, or shame.
With the help of a licensed therapist or counselor, people with addiction disorder can explore the source of their problem, satisfy their emotional needs in a healthy manner, and find better ways to cope with unpleasant emotions.
Long-term rehab
To lower the chances of relapse, people with severe addictions need round-the-clock supervision. That’s why some experts believe long-term rehab is a viable strategy for combating addiction disorder.
People with chronic substance use and addiction can spend up to one year in rehab centers where they can receive both psychiatric treatment and psychotherapy services (individual and group).
It might sound like a difficult task, but it’s the safest and most effective way to overcome addiction disorder.