According to experts, millions of Americans have an alcohol or drug abuse problem. Since these individuals come from families with a history of substance abuse disorder, they have the potential to develop the same problem. It is critical for individuals to research addiction or substance abuse problems within their families. If they find that there is a history of addiction in their family line, they must prevent the disease by steering clear of the use of drugs and alcohol.
What is addiction?
Drug addiction is defined as the mental and bodily dependence on a substance despite its destructive and unsafe consequences. It is critical to note that these signs do not make an appearance in each case or for every type of drug addiction. However, these signs can appear frequently enough, and it is critical to apply interventions with appropriate treatments.
What are the 8 signs and symptoms of drug use and addiction?
If you know someone close to you who is addicted to drugs or alcohol, they might be exhibiting the following signs and symptoms:
1. Cravings
People who suffer from addiction typically undergo forceful urges or cravings for the drug as their addiction progresses. Cravings can be defined as the conscious or unconscious urge of desiring are wanting to use a certain substance. They are the main feature of addiction.
2. Tolerance
As time passes and with prolonged use of the substance, those who utilize drugs can build up a tolerance to them. Meaning they need more amounts of the drug to achieve the desired results.
3. Withdrawal Symptoms
A majority of drugs result in withdrawal symptoms when those who utilize them attempt to stop or mitigate their usage abruptly. The onset of withdrawal syndrome and tolerance is indicative that psychological dependence on a substance has occurred.
4. Physical Dependence
After the dependence on drugs develops, an individual becomes more accustomed to the persistent presence and effects of the substance. There might be changes in the physiology accompanied by the process, leaving people poorly functioning or functioning at a sub-optimal level when the drug is no longer in their bodily system.
5. Poor Judgment
When an individual has an addiction to drugs, it is possible for them to want to obtain more. Because of this, they might exhibit risky behavior such as stealing and lying, and even engaging in sexual activity that is unsafe. They might even find themselves selling drugs and doing crimes that can land them in jail.
6. Drug-seeking
People may spend huge amounts of time and energy trying to find and get their preferred drugs.
7. Financial Trouble
Individuals who utilize drugs may spend huge and unexplainable amounts of money. They may end up draining their savings and bank accounts and go beyond their budget in order to obtain the drug. This type of behavior is a major red flag for addiction and has tragic consequences. Surveys show that for 341 Americans who have exhibited a substance use disorder, over 40% have drained their savings or retirement funds. At least 42% sold assets for ready cash, and 11% ended up filing for bankruptcy.
8. Neglectful of Responsibilities
When people choose to utilize or get the drug rather than accomplish work, tasks, or other personal obligations, it is a certain sign of addiction.
Treatment Options for Drug Addicts
When some people are challenged with drug addiction, they may be in denial. They will not agree that they have a problem. Others may be reluctant to undergo treatment due to a lack of a support network or simple fear. However, once they finally addressed the challenge and are ready to commit to treatment, they must choose between two options: outpatient, or inpatient
- Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment typically compromises some treatment in a clinic or treatment center that allows you to return home after undergoing the treatment. It is more flexible and manageable so you can attend to your responsibilities while still undergoing drug or alcohol treatment.
- Inpatient treatment
Inpatient or residential treatment necessitates patients to live in a treatment facility for the treatment duration. It is often a preferable option for people who want to distance themselves from their temptations and focus solely on getting sober with zero distractions. Inpatient drug habitation provides close medical and professional supervision and ready access to medical care if required. Inpatient treatment offers the perfect setting in which others going through the same struggles can give mutual support and share their experiences and offer hope.
Conclusion
It is critical to know the signs of addiction problems. You might be noticing these signs in yourself or the people you love. It is essential to address this problem immediately and stop the signs and symptoms of addiction before it ruins lives.