Drug Addiction Information

Get the Drug Addiction Information You Need

With all of the drug addiction information we have, people still believe addiction is a moral dilemma and that those suffering from it should just stop - as if it were like taking a breath. Let us help you understand drug addiction a little better. Understand why people cannot just stop and why relapse occurs at such alarming rates.

For more drug addiction information, call our toll-free helpline at 1-800-237-3150. Help is available 24/7.

Drug Addiction: Information to Help Understand Addiction

Addiction or drug addiction is defined by the American Medical Association as a chronic brain disease that is progressive if left untreated. Many refer to drug addiction as a disease of relapse because of the difficulty of maintaining recovery for long periods of time. Professionals view addiction as a brain disease because it alters the function of the brain in many ways. Researchers have even been able to view actual changes in the cells of those suffering from drug or alcohol addiction.

Scientists have been able to discover that the brain link in drug addiction is dopamine. Dopamine is released during pleasurable activities. If the drug produces a sharp rise in dopamine, which means an increase in pleasure, it is safe to say that people will use it again and again. Excessive use is part of the definition of drug addiction. Interestingly enough, the second part of the definition for drug addiction is continued use, which means the individual continues to use the drug despite negative consequences.

Drug Addiction Information: Dependency

When individuals suffering from a drug addiction talk of "coming down" or "crashing," what they are really feeling is a drop in their dopamine levels. You can imagine after a hit of crack or crystal meth how hard the cells work to produce increased levels of dopamine. The harder the cells work to produce the same effects as the drug did, the more exhausted they become. Just like any form of exercise - the harder you work, the more tired you get; the more tired you get, the less dopamine you produce. This simple process of drug addiction explains the severe mood swings people experience as well as the cravings and compulsions.

Mixed in with what seems like horrifying drug addiction information is some good news, and that is: drug addiction is a treatable illness. Stepping Stone Center for Recovery is a safe and effective drug addiction treatment facility that will provide you with individualized care.

For more drug addiction information or if you require addiction treatment, call us toll-free at 1-800-237-3150 now! Help is available 24 hours a day, and all calls are confidential.