About Drug and Alcohol Addiction
Addiction is a brain disease. Addiction is a disease. It is frequently described as a primary, chronic, progressive, and relapsing disease. Research in the last decade tells us that addiction is a brain disease. People are often reluctant to acknowledge addiction as a disease because of voluntary first use of the chemical. Although someone chooses to use alcohol or other drugs initially, the changes that occur in the brain over time do not reflect a deliberate choice. Addiction changes the neuropathways of the mind. These changes are suspected of creating the thinking and feeling distortions that lead to the compulsion to consume drugs despite the obvious negative consequences. Thus, the nature of addiction is that of compulsive drug use despite negative consequences. This compulsive use has become part of an accepted definition of addiction. Why can't addicts just stop? An addict usually develops drug dependence, and it becomes very hard for him/her to stop the abuse. People who want to get over drug-addiction and give up this habit often find it very hard to do so by themselves. The addicts are sometimes afraid and embarrassed to accept help; therefore, they do not even ask anyone for help. Some addicts who try to give up, often due to the severe withdrawal symptoms of drug addiction and craving, change their minds. Many people think that there is no solution to strong drug-addiction, but they are wrong. Drug addiction can be fought; the addict just needs guidance, awareness and support. Families and counselors play the most important role in fighting drug-addiction, as the addict needs constant motivation and support.
