Addictions

Alcohol, drug abuse and addiction are among the most common and costly problems society faces today. Alcohol and drug abuse are responsible for many deaths, injuries and illnesses, and property damage. Addiction can also result in many co-occurring psychiatric disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder.

Medical Impact of Addiction
Addiction to alcohol harms the liver, as well as other organs, including the brain. It can increase the probability that an individual will develop cancer or contract many other diseases. Drug addiction is equally damaging to the body and affects the function of many different organs.

Addiction can cause high blood pressure, heart disease, impairment or loss of motor skills and memory loss. It weakens the immune system and impairs sexual activity. It frequently leads to premature death.

Signs of Addiction
Individuals who abuse drugs or alcohol frequently show signs of addiction. When they become unable to control their craving for alcohol or drugs, they may be addicted. They then become physically, as well as psychologically, dependent on the substances to which they are addicted.

Addicts are frequently irritable and withdraw from their responsibilities. They frequently borrow money, steal from others or sell their possessions. Their behavior is secretive, and their personal appearance and hygiene are likely to deteriorate.

When substance abuse escalates to addiction, it is no longer just a bad habit. A dependency this strong requires intervention and treatment to overcome. The abuser must first accept the reality of addiction and admit that he or she needs help.

Causes of Addiction
Individuals who have a family history of addiction are more susceptible to becoming addicted. Individuals with other psychiatric disorders are also more susceptible.

Peer pressure and access to alcohol or drugs are just a few of the factors that influence the initial abuse of addictive substances. Individuals begin by experimenting out of curiosity, then use of alcohol or drugs gradually increases.

Treatment
Treatment usually begins with "detoxifying" patients by helping them withdraw from the substance to which they are addicted. Withdrawal can be difficult with severe physical and mental symptoms.

Once detoxification is complete, counseling and other therapies are used. Medication may also be used as a substitute for the drug to which the patient is addicted.