Drug Addiction Help & Advice

Drug addiction help is a necessity and can be very challenging at times. Today, addiction conditions affect millions of people worldwide. The 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), released by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), states that 48.7 million people aged 12 or older had a substance abuse disorder – 29.5 million reported alcohol use disorder, 27.2 million had drug use disorder, and 8 million reported both.

Having a drug addiction can wreak havoc on a person’s health, relationships, and overall well-being. However, there is hope. With the right support and resources, someone struggling with drug addiction can start on a journey of recovery to reclaim their life. According to SAMHSA, 72.2% of the adults who perceived themselves as having a substance abuse disorder considered themselves to be in recovery or having fully recovered from their condition. Recovery from drug addiction is possible – with the right help and advice. 

What is Drug Addiction?

Drug addiction is a chronic, relapsing condition characterized by compulsive drug seeking, use, and consumption despite harmful consequences. It is considered a complex brain disorder that affects the brain’s structure and function, leading to changes in behavior, cognition, and emotional regulation.

Drug addiction can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or socioeconomic status. It is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, including genetic predisposition, trauma, stress, peer influence, and co-occurring mental health disorders.

Types of Drug Addictions

Drug addiction can manifest in various forms, covering a wide range of substances. The most common types of drug addiction include:

Opioid Addiction: Opioids are a class of drugs that include prescription painkillers like oxycodone and hydrocodone, as well as illegal drugs like heroin. Opioid addiction can develop rapidly due to their potent effects on the brain’s reward system and their ability to produce euphoria and pain relief.

Stimulant Addiction: Stimulants, such as cocaine and methamphetamine, increase alertness, energy, and euphoria. These drugs can lead to addiction through repeated use, as individuals chase the intense highs they produce.

Sedative-Hypnotic Addiction: Sedatives and hypnotics, including benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium) and barbiturates, are central nervous system depressants that induce relaxation and sleepiness. Prolonged use of these drugs can lead to physical dependence and addiction.

Alcohol Addiction: Alcohol is one of the most widely abused substances globally. Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction, resulting in significant physical, mental, and social consequences.

Cannabis Addiction: While cannabis is often perceived as less addictive than other drugs, some individuals develop problematic patterns of use that meet the criteria for addiction. Heavy, long-term cannabis use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms.

Hallucinogen Addiction: Hallucinogens like LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, and PCP can cause profound alterations in perception, mood, and thought. While these drugs are not typically associated with physical dependence, some individuals may develop compulsive patterns of use that interfere with daily functioning.

Nicotine Addiction: Nicotine, primarily found in tobacco products like cigarettes and e-cigarettes, is highly addictive. Nicotine addiction can lead to long-term tobacco use, despite the well-documented health risks associated with smoking.

Prescription Medication Addiction: Prescription drugs, such as sedatives, opioids, and stimulants, can be misused or abused, leading to addiction. Individuals may obtain these medications through legitimate prescriptions or illicit means.

Polysubstance Addiction: Some individuals may struggle with addiction to multiple substances simultaneously, known as polysubstance addiction. This complex form of addiction poses unique challenges and requires comprehensive treatment approaches tailored to individual needs.

Seeking Drug Addiction Help from Professionals

One of the most effective ways to address drug addiction is through professional treatment programs. These programs offer comprehensive care tailored to individuals’ needs and may include a combination of the following components:

• Detoxification: The first step in many treatment programs is detoxification, where the body is rid of the substance and withdrawal symptoms are managed under medical supervision.
• Therapy: Various forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), help individuals identify underlying issues, develop coping skills, and modify destructive thought patterns and behaviors.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT combines medications with therapy and counseling to treat substance use disorders effectively. Medications like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, particularly for opioid addiction.
• Residential or Inpatient Treatment: Inpatient treatment programs provide intensive, round-the-clock care in a residential setting, offering a structured environment conducive to recovery.
• Outpatient Treatment: Outpatient programs allow individuals to attend therapy sessions and receive support while living at home, making them suitable for those with less severe addiction or other responsibilities.

Where to Find
Drug Addiction Help
Near You

When recovering from addiction, it is important to find people and resources you can trust. If you are looking for drug addiction help, knowing where to go and who to talk to becomes a vital part of the process. If you haven’t found a treatment center and aren’t sure where to turn to, here are some ways you can locate conveniently located services:

• Online Resources: Start your search for drug addiction help online. Websites like SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) offer directories of treatment facilities and support groups searchable by location.
• Helplines: Many organizations operate helplines staffed by trained professionals who can provide information, support, and referrals to local resources. These helplines are often toll-free and available 24/7 for immediate assistance.
• Community Health Centers: Local community health centers may offer substance abuse treatment programs or referrals to nearby facilities. They often provide a range of services, including counseling, medication management, and support groups.
• Support Groups: Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and SMART Recovery offer peer support and guidance to individuals in recovery. These groups typically hold regular meetings in various locations, providing a valuable source of encouragement and accountability.
• Healthcare Providers: Your primary care physician or mental health professional can offer guidance and referrals to appropriate treatment programs based on your individual needs and preferences.
• Word of Mouth: Don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth. Friends, family members, or colleagues who have undergone treatment or know someone who has may offer valuable insights and recommendations.
• Local Directories and Hotlines: Check local directories or call hotlines specific to your area for information on nearby treatment facilities, support groups, and other resources.

Get Drug Addiction Help from Asheville Recovery Center

Getting drug addiction help requires comprehensive support and treatment. Help is available, and recovery is possible – Asheville Recovery Center is here for you. Whether you are struggling with addiction or find yourself supporting a loved one on their sobriety journey, we know that knowing where to look can make all the difference in your recovery. If you are looking for drug addiction help, let us show you the options for drug addiction help we have available.
Call Asheville Recovery Center today.