Five Important Things to Know About Drug Addiction

The opioid crisis continues to create headlines on both local and national levels, and those who seek help face a lengthy journey of recovery , as well as the stigma that can prevent people from receiving the drug detox in California and help they require.

It is possible to all contribute to the fight against addiction by learning more about it. Here are some things to think about:

There is no other choice

The first, and the most important: Drug addiction is not something you can choose to do. Drug abuse can cause brain chemistry disruptions. Here is a breakdown:

The reward center in the brain releases dopamine when opioids are in action, increasing feelings of pleasure. The feelings are similar to those we experience when we indulge in chocolate, hold a dear person's hand, or participate in other activities that make us happy.

Dopamine triggers the midbrain to make a lasting memory that associates these good emotions with the conditions and surroundings in which they occurred.

These memories are referred to as"conditioned associations" and can lead to a substance abuser craving substances when they come across these people, locations or things. For example smokers might declare, "When you're in a bar, I have to take a smoke."

Opioid dependence and withdrawal occur when the base of the brain , the locus ceruleus (LC) undergoes modifications. In the LC neurons, the neurons trigger awakening, breathing blood pressure, wakefulness, and general alertness.

The opioid molecules linked to receptors within the LC result in drowsiness, slow respiration, and lower blood pressure all signs of respiratory suppression that indicate a person's rate and depth of breathing are lower than the norm.

The LC responds to opioids by boosting its production of neurotransmitters when it is repeatedly exposed.

The person who is taking opioids will experience a more relaxed state due to the higher production that counters the effects of opioids. But, opioids don't stop the increase in noradrenaline. The excessive use of noradrenaline can cause jitters and anxiety along with muscle cramps and diarrhea, which are common signs of withdrawal.

It becomes a vicious cyclethat produces more tolerance which ultimately leads to dependence. The merry-go-round that is drug-addicted behavior has started.

Everyone is at risk

Addiction is an equality of chance disease that affects all people , regardless of their socioeconomic conditions, race, education, or geographical location.

Addiction is a disease that affects all. There isn't a clear understanding of what makes certain people more vulnerable to addiction than others. More research needs to be conducted.

The stigma associated with addiction can be detrimental to the human family

I've heard people refer to those with substance use disorders hopeless and a waste of time and slugs, scumbags, lowlifes, and many other vile names we wouldn't use for other kinds of patients. They are parents, siblings brothers, nieces and nephews.

Mental health diseases

An addict who appears to be hopeless could be a scared human being who suffers from mental illness. The addict may feel helpless and depressed by the system in place and have lost any hope of living a normal, normal life.

My personal view is that addiction to drugs is viewed as a personal choice as a flaw in character or a weakness of spirit rather than what it is really: a mental health issue that is chronic and characterized by cycles of remission and relapse. We have only recently discovered abstinence as a viable treatment option, yet it's only offered to only a tiny portion of patients.

Effective treatment is readily available

Numerous studies demonstrate that medication-assisted treatment (MAT) effectively treats addiction to opioids. Buprenorphine (subutex suboxone, suboxone and methadone) has been proven to be effective in the treatment of addiction to opioids.

Eliminate cravings and withdrawal symptoms

Reduce relapse

Cluttering with HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C will reduce the spread of these communicable illnesses.

Lower the drug abuse crime rate

These drugs correct brain chemical that triggers addict behavior. These medications, when used in conjunction with support services such as counseling or group therapy, can reduce the risk of addiction to opioids.