Addiction Treatment & Substance Abuse Rehab

If you’re concerned about a loved one’s drug or alcohol use, you may be wondering if they have developed an addiction. Perhaps you’re struggling with prescription medication or other substances and need help overcoming dependence. Legacy Healing Center provides comprehensive treatment for substance use disorders (SUD) and their underlying causes.

Understanding addiction and recognizing the early signs can be crucial in seeking help. Explore the treatment options available at our addiction treatment center, or call our addiction hotline at 888-534-2295 today for guidance and support.

What is Addiction?

The definition of addiction is that:

Addiction is a chronic disease that compels an individual to seek out and use substances despite harmful consequences.

Over time, the consistent engagement of the addiction leads to changes in brain structure and function, making it difficult for the person to control their impulses. Even if substance use begins voluntarily, continued use alters the brain, causing compulsive behavior. Attempting to quit may lead to withdrawal symptoms and relapse, highlighting the need for professional treatment.

Is Addiction a Disease?

Yes, addiction is classified as a brain disease. It alters the brain’s reward system, decision-making processes, and impulse control. While addiction is a treatable condition, the changes in brain neurons in this complex condition make it challenging for individuals to stop using substances without intervention or an inpatient treatment program.

Types of Addiction

Addictions can be classified into two main categories:

Substance Addictions

• Alcohol: Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to physical dependence when larger amounts are required to achieve the same desire. Alcohol use disorder (AUD) can also lead to liver disease, and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
• Opioids (prescription painkillers, heroin, fentanyl): All opioids are highly addictive and the adverse consequence of abusing these substances can alter brain function, leading to the development of opioid use disorder. Opioid dependence also causes severe withdrawal symptoms and overdose deaths nationally every year.
• Stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine): Drugs that increase energy and alertness but can cause heart problems, paranoia, and long-term cognitive impairment. While crystal meth is an illegal drug, methamphetamines, like Adderall, are addictive drugs often prescribed by health care providers for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
• Depressants (benzodiazepines, barbiturates): Often prescribed by a health care provider for anxiety or sleep disorders, these problematic substances slow brain function and can lead to substance misuse and dependence.
• Nicotine and tobacco: One of the most addictive substances, nicotine affects dopamine levels, making it difficult to quit without intervention.

Non-Substance Addictions

• Food Addiction: Characterized by compulsive overeating despite negative consequences on physical health and emotional well-being.
• Behavioral Addiction: Engaging in compulsive behaviors that provide short-term pleasure but lead to negative long-term consequences.
• Sexual Addiction: Persistent sexual thoughts or behaviors that interfere with daily life and relationships.
• Gambling Disorder: An inability to control gambling behavior, leading to financial and emotional distress.
• Internet Addiction: Excessive online use, including social media, that disrupts daily life and relationships.
• Video Game Addiction: Compulsive gaming behavior that impacts physical and mental health, relationships, and responsibilities.
• Shopping Addiction: Uncontrollable urge to shop, often leading to financial problems and emotional distress.
• Technology Addiction: Excessive use of digital devices, leading to impaired social interactions and psychological distress.
• E-Cigarette and Vaping Addiction: Nicotine dependency through vaping products, is often marketed as a “safer” alternative to smoking but still highly addictive.

Most Common Addictions

Among substance addictions, alcohol use disorder is the most common, followed by nicotine and opioid addiction.

Behavioral addictions such as gambling, internet, and porn addiction are also increasingly prevalent.

Signs of Addiction

Recognizing early signs of addiction can improve treatment outcomes and reduce relapse risks. The symptoms may be behavioral, physical, or psychological, including:

• Frequent lateness or absenteeism from work or school
• Withdrawing from social activities
• Secretive, deceptive, or aggressive behavior
• Slurred speech or excessive talking
• Loss of interest in hobbies and responsibilities
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Engaging in risky sexual behavior
• Mood swings, depression, or irritability
• Financial difficulties due to substance use
• Continued use despite negative consequences

Causes of Addiction

Common factors for the development of addiction result from a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental risk factors, including:

• Genetic Factors: Research suggests that individuals with a family history of addiction are more susceptible to developing substance use disorders. Genetic predisposition influences how the brain responds to drugs, cravings, and withdrawal.
• Environmental Risk Factors: Childhood trauma, sexual abuse, exposure to illicit drugs, socioeconomic status, and high-stress environments contribute significantly to the development of drug addiction. Peer pressure and accessibility to substances also play a crucial role.
• Age: Adolescents and young adults are more vulnerable to addiction due to their still-developing brains, particularly in areas related to impulse control and decision-making.
• Co-occurring Disorders: Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and PTSD increase the likelihood of substance use as individuals attempt to self-medicate their symptoms.
• Epigenetics: Environmental factors can influence gene expression related to addiction, meaning stress, drug exposure, or trauma can activate genetic predispositions that increase susceptibility.
• Transgenerational Epigenetic Inheritance: Studies suggest that addiction-related vulnerabilities can be passed down across generations, meaning children and grandchildren of individuals with addiction may inherit an increased risk even without direct exposure to substances.

Symptoms of Withdrawal

Withdrawal occurs when an individual who has become dependent on a substance stops or reduces its use. The severity of withdrawal symptoms depends on the substance used, the duration of use, and individual physiological factors.

Psychological Dependence

Psychological dependence refers to the emotional and mental cravings for a substance or behavior. Symptoms may include:

• Intense cravings for the substance
• Anxiety and depression
• Irritability and mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating
• Insomnia or excessive sleep
• Paranoia or hallucinations (in severe cases)

Physical Dependence

Physical dependence occurs when the body adapts to a substance and experiences withdrawal symptoms when its use is reduced or stopped. Symptoms may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating and chills
• Muscle pain and tremors
• Fatigue and weakness
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Seizures (in severe cases, such as alcohol or benzodiazepine withdrawal)

Diagnosis of Addiction

A medical professional diagnoses addiction using a comprehensive assessment that includes:

• Patient History: Reviewing personal and family history of substance use and mental health conditions.
• Behavioral Evaluation: Observing patterns of substance use and its impact on daily life, relationships, and responsibilities. Mental health professionals may also evaluate the presence of mental disorders for a dual diagnosis.
• Screening Tools: The American Society of Addiction Medicine uses standardized assessments such as the DSM-5 criteria for substance use disorders.
• Physical Examination: Checking for signs of substance-related health issues, including liver damage, weight changes, and neurological symptoms.
• Laboratory Tests: Conducting blood or urine tests to detect substance use and rule out medical conditions that may mimic addiction symptoms.

Treatment for Addiction

Treatment is a critical component of recovery and is available at every stage of addiction.

• Detoxification: Detox safely removes substances from the body under medical supervision.
• Therapy and Counseling: Individual therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, and group counseling.
• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
• Residential Treatment Programs: Following detox, admission into an inpatient treatment center or lower level of treatment, such as a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), or Outpatient Program (OP).
• Alternative Therapies: Mindfulness practices, hypnotherapy, and brain mapping can help with positive reinforcement without engaging in addictive activity.
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Addressing underlying mental health disorders or psychiatric disorders alongside addiction.
• Community Programs: Involvement in 12-step programs, such as AA or Celebrate Recovery, has proven to assist in controlling addictive behaviors through sponsorship and service.

13 Principles of Effective Drug Addiction Treatment

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, these principles are required for effective addiction treatment:

1. Addiction is a complex but treatable disease.
2. No single treatment is right for everyone.
3. Treatment must be readily available.
4. Effective treatment addresses multiple needs, not just substance use.
5. Staying in treatment for an adequate period is critical.
6. Behavioral therapies are essential components of treatment.
7. Medications can be an important part of treatment.
8. Treatment plans must be continually reassessed and modified.
9. Co-occurring disorders should be treated together.
10. Medically supervised detoxification is the first step but not sufficient alone.
11. Involuntary treatment can still be effective.
12. Drug use during treatment must be monitored.
13. Long-term recovery support is necessary.

Addiction Management and Aftercare

Addiction is a chronic disease requiring long-term management. Aftercare programs help individuals sustain recovery and prevent relapse. Support options include:

• 12-Step Meetings: Programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA).
• Support Groups: Peer-based programs to foster community and accountability.
• Life Skills Training: Assistance with employment, relationships, and reintegration into society.
• Sober Living Activities: Group events, recreational activities, and community involvement.

Seek Help with Addiction Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, don’t wait to seek help. Legacy Healing Center provides specialized programs to guide you toward recovery. Call 888-534-2295 to speak with a treatment specialist and learn about our nationwide addiction treatment centers.

FAQs about Addiction

Why do people take drugs? People take drugs for various reasons, including stress relief, peer influence, curiosity, or self-medication for mental health conditions.

Do people choose to keep using drugs? Initially, drug use is voluntary, but over time, addiction changes brain function, making it difficult to quit without help.

Why do some people become addicted while others do not? Genetics, environment, and mental health conditions all contribute to the likelihood of developing addiction.

What biological factors increase the risk of addiction? Brain chemistry, family history, and mental health disorders play a role.

What environmental factors increase the risk of addiction? Peer pressure, early exposure to drugs, trauma, and stress can contribute.

What other factors increase the risk of addiction? Lack of support systems, accessibility to drugs, and untreated mental health conditions increase addiction risk.