What is the difference in addictions to specific substances?

“Drug addiction” is a general term that refers to the compulsive need to seek and use substances despite harmful consequences. However, drugs vary in their addictive properties, and social trends can influence the popularity of certain drugs. Some commonly abused substances include: Marijuana has become one of the most widely used drugs in the United States. In 2019, around 3.5 million Americans tried marijuana for the first time. The prevalence of marijuana abuse has greatly increased over the past few years and has remained high among high school students . Meanwhile, disapproval of cannabis among teens has declined. Marijuana was not always considered to be addictive, but recent data indicates that this drug can cause symptoms of dependence and addiction, including cravings, insomnia, anxiety, depression and agitation. Cocaine / Crack Cocaine is a central nervous system stimulant. Its euphoric, energizing effects are not only seductive but also highly addictive. In 2019, nearly 671,000 Americans tried cocaine for the first time. Crack cocaine, a more potent form of the drug, is estimated to be between 75% and 100% more powerful than the powdered form. Crack is highly addictive and causes changes in brain chemistry that quickly lead to compulsive abuse and dependence. Methamphetamine. Known as “meth,” methamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant that is illicitly taken by about 2 million Americans annually. The importation of meth from Mexican drug trafficking cartels has become increasingly common, contributing to the rise in addiction. Opioids encompass a group of potent pain-relieving substances ranging from oxycodone to heroin. They are often collectively called narcotics . Approximately 3.7% of Americans misused opioids in 2019, with most of them misusing prescription opioids. As central nervous system depressants, opioids slow down the brain’s activity, leading to overdose if too much is taken. Overdose deaths from opioids have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, posing a risk for opioid users. Hallucinogens are psychoactive drugs that affect the way someone experiences the world around them. Some common hallucinogenic drugs include ecstasy , LSD , PCP and mushrooms . The effects of hallucinogenic drugs can range from pleasant sensory distortions and feelings of empathy to terrifying hallucinations and violent impulses. Young people may be introduced to hallucinogenic drugs at clubs, raves, concerts or parties. Although hallucinogenic drugs are commonly believed to be non-addictive, ecstasy may permanently damage the body’s ability to produce the neurotransmitter serotonin. Other prescription drugs. Opioids are not the only prescription drug class that is prone to abuse. Other commonly abused prescription drugs include benzodiazepines (Valium, Klonopin, Ativan, Xanax), stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta), and prescription sleeping pills (Ambien, Lunesta).

What causes addiction?

There are many factors that contribute to drug addiction, including genetic makeup, family background, social influences, neurological factors and environmental issues. Having a close family member who is addicted to drugs or growing up in an environment where drug use is widely accepted can increase a person’s chances of developing dependence and drug addiction. A co-occurring mental health problem also makes someone vulnerable to addictive drug use. Even now, many people assume that drug addiction is caused by a failure of willpower or by weak character. However, the medical community recognizes that addiction is a brain disease — not a character flaw. The repeated use of drugs like heroin, cocaine, meth or prescription opiates causes profound changes in the structure and function of the brain. These substances interfere with the way the brain processes and responds to neurotransmitters, chemicals that control emotion, energy levels, pain response, judgment, sleep patterns and metabolism. The more someone uses these drugs, the more their brain and nerves come to rely on these substances to produce feelings of pleasure, excitement, relaxation or euphoria. Drug addiction occurs when repeated use of a drug changes the brain in such a way that the user can no longer function normally without it.

How long does it take to become dependent on drugs?

There is no hard and fast rule on how long it takes for an individual to become dependent on drugs or develop a drug addiction. The length of time can depend on the type of drug being used, the amount taken, and whether a combination of drugs (including alcohol) is used. Other factors, such as physical and psychological health, can also influence drug dependence. However, drug dependence does not often happen immediately. It often takes weeks of heavy, chronic use before a person becomes physically dependent on a drug.

How long does drug withdrawal last?

Drug withdrawal can range from lasting a few days, weeks or longer . The first stage in drug withdrawal is detoxification. Some of the late signs of drug withdrawal, such as anxiety, depression and cognitive impairment, may linger after the detoxification phase. There are many factors that can influence the duration and severity of withdrawal symptoms, including: The drug How long you have been using the drug Dosage Age Your overall health

What should I do if I believe a loved one has a drug addiction?

If you’ve noticed the signs or symptoms of drug addiction in someone you love, don’t hesitate to intervene. Many people are reluctant to talk to a friend or family member about drug addiction, either because they’re afraid of jumping to conclusions or because they don’t want to make the problem worse. Although it’s never easy or comfortable to bring up the topic of substance abuse, reaching out to an addicted person could stop the progression of a fatal disease. Here are a few steps you can take to communicate your concerns while protecting yourself and your loved ones from the repercussions of addiction: Initiate a one-on-one conversation: If you don’t bring up the topic of drug addiction, it’s unlikely that your loved one will initiate the discussion. Denial is one of the strongest side effects of addiction, and it’s all too easy for spouses, partners or children to ignore the problem. Have an honest, heart-to-heart talk with your loved one about how their behavior is affecting you and other people in your home. Seek advice and support from others: Counselors, therapists and support groups can be valuable sources of advice when you’re trying to deal with an addicted loved one. A substance abuse therapist can give you pointers on how to communicate effectively with someone who’s in denial. Additionally, 12-step groups like Al-Anon or Nar-Anon can offer helpful support and coping strategies. Start researching treatment options: It’s never too soon to start exploring drug treatment programs for your loved one. Rehab facilities, recovery services and detox programs are listed publicly. You can also use the internet to find recovery centers in your community or out of state. Work with an intervention specialist: If your loved one is in strong denial about the problem, they will probably refuse to get treatment or even to listen to you. A substance abuse counselor or interventionist can help you plan a formal meeting to confront your loved one with the consequences of their behavior and propose a treatment plan.

How should I tell my loved ones that I have a drug addiction?

The best way to tell your loved ones that you’re addicted is to be as honest and open as possible. Be prepared for the possibility that they won’t understand your disease — even today, many people don’t realize that addiction is a chronic condition on the same level as diabetes or high blood pressure. Your loved ones may criticize you; they may even try to persuade you that you don’t have a problem. It’s important to stand firm in your new self-awareness and stay on track with your plan for treatment. If you fear that your loved ones will reject or judge you, consider inviting them to a session with a substance abuse counselor or a 12-step meeting. Educating your loved ones about the realities of drug addiction may make them more receptive and supportive. Having the support of professionals and peers will also help you stick with your convictions about recovery.

What types of medications are available to treat drug addiction?

There are no silver bullets when it comes to treating addiction. However, medications can sometimes make the recovery process easier by easing the cravings and side effects associated with withdrawal. In the advanced stages of recovery from opioid addiction, some people continue to take these medications in order to maintain their sobriety. Addiction medication should be taken only under a doctor’s supervision. These drugs can have serious side effects, including physical dependence and tolerance. Ironically, the medications used to treat opioid addiction have addictive properties themselves. Medications that are used to help manage opioid addiction include: Methadone is a long-acting opioid that is prescribed to help manage opioid cravings. When taken in small, controlled doses, methadone allows people struggling with other opioids to withdraw gradually and maintain a drug-free life. Buprenorphine is an opioid that is prescribed to help addicted individuals manage cravings and reduce the need for opiates. Naltrexone can help block the effects of opioids on the brain, which makes opioid use less pleasurable. Naltrexone is prescribed for opiate users who have been through the withdrawal phase and are motivated to stick to a recovery program. Other medications are prescribed to help manage the pain, muscle spasms, nausea and anxiety of drug withdrawal. When they are used as part of a comprehensive recovery plan, these medications can make withdrawal more tolerable, increasing the chances that the patient will progress to the next stage of recovery.

What are the recovery rates for people with a drug addiction?

With the help of professional drug treatment programs, many people with addiction have learned to live meaningful, drug-free lives. Relapse rates among recovering opioid users are as high as 90%. However, study participants who completed an inpatient treatment program were more likely to avoid relapse and remain drug-free. Drug addiction is a chronic disease, and relapse is one of its major symptoms. It’s important for people in recovery to realize that relapse is the rule rather than the exception. Relapse prevention therapy can help addicted people learn how to avoid relapses, or at least how to minimize the severity of a relapse if they do slip. The sooner someone seeks help after a relapse, the sooner they’ll get back on track with their recovery program. Recovery rates are higher for patients who have access to aftercare support after they are discharged from treatment. Aftercare services include case management, alumni groups, community referrals, counseling services, sober housing, medication management and more. These services provide a source of stability and support for people in recovery while they transition back to daily life in the community.

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