Is addiction a disease?
Heartbreak, Addiction, Fear and Families
Addiction struggles – Is addiction a disease? Addiction is a health condition that’s often misunderstood and stigmatised by society. It requires a deeper understanding, a compassionate perspective, and an informed approach. Addiction can be the start of something new, it does not have to be the end of your story.
In this blog, we want to give you (the friend, mom, brother, sister, colleague or concerned individual) ten facts about addiction, from its nature as a lifelong disease to the sense of isolation that people struggling with addiction endure.
But we also want to tell you that we are here to support you, too. We are here to help you with your addiction struggles.
1. Addicts Feel Isolated.
Many people struggling with addiction often face an overwhelming sense of isolation. This is largely due to the stigma attached to substance use, which can lead to feelings of guilt, shame and fear of judgment. This isolation intensifies the struggles of addiction, fuelling a destructive cycle of increased substance use and deepening loneliness. Also, these feelings of isolation can prevent people from seeking help, further entrenching their addiction.
At Eagles View, we understand that this issue is critical in our approach to addiction. By creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment, we can encourage open dialogue, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote recovery, breaking the cycle of addiction and loneliness.
2. Addiction Is a Lifelong Struggle
Much like chronic diseases such as heart disease or diabetes, addiction cannot be “cured” with a one-time treatment. Even after a person has successfully undergone treatment and achieved sobriety, the susceptibility to substance use disorders often remains.
This is because of the long-lasting changes in the brain caused by substance use. Understanding this lifelong nature of addiction is incredibly important to setting realistic expectations. Continued support, care, and management are necessary in maintaining recovery and preventing relapses. At Eagles View, we acknowledge the need for comprehensive, long-term strategies in addiction treatment plans. We provide long-term care and support, creating an environment where recovery is possible.
3. Addiction Is a Disease
Addiction is a disease, not a character flaw or a manifestation of moral weakness. It’s a complex condition that affects the brain, leading to an uncontrollable urge to use substances despite their harmful effects. This compulsive behaviour stems from long-lasting changes in the brain’s structure and function caused by chronic substance use. These alterations can drive many harmful behaviours, often self-destructive, that characterise addiction.
Understanding addiction as a disease can help shift societal perceptions, framing it as a health issue that requires medical treatment and compassionate care rather than a basis for judgment, stigmatisation, or punishment. This perspective can help create more supportive environments for individuals on their journey toward recovery.
4. Addiction Can Happen at Any Stage in Life
Addiction is complex and can strike at any stage in life. While early exposure to drugs and alcohol can heighten the risk of developing an addiction, it’s important to understand that no age group is immune.
Factors such as genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and significant life stressors play substantial roles in the onset of addiction. These factors can trigger substance use disorders irrespective of the age at which a person first encounters addictive substances.
5. Addiction Affects More Than Just the Individual
Addiction is not just an individual struggle; it significantly affects families, friends, and communities. Families can experience emotional distress, and shared finances may suffer, potentially leading to poverty or bankruptcy.
Addiction can also strain friendships due to trust issues arising from the unpredictable behaviour associated with substance use. Added to that, the societal stigma around addiction prevents a lot of individuals from seeking help. That is why addiction is a societal issue that requires collective action for effective prevention and treatment strategies.
6. Adolescents Are More Susceptible To Addiction
Research indicates that the adolescent brain is still developing, making it more susceptible to the effects of drugs and alcohol. During this critical developmental stage, exposure to these substances can disrupt the formation of important neural pathways, potentially resulting in long-term cognitive and behavioural outcomes.
Furthermore, early substance use may contribute to the establishment of patterns of addictive behaviour that can continue into adulthood. This heightened risk highlights the importance of implementing prevention strategies aimed at reducing substance use among young people. Educational initiatives that inform adolescents about the risks associated with substance use, along with the provision of supportive environments, may play a significant role in preventing addiction.
7. Dependence Makes Drugs Feel Normal
Chronic substance use alters the brain’s chemistry, causing the body to become accustomed to the presence of the drug. As a result, the absence of the drug can cause discomfort or even physical illness, leading to further substance use.
This physiological dependence can make abstinence feel abnormal, contributing to the challenge of overcoming addiction.
8. Relapse Isn’t the End
Many people view a relapse as a failure, but in the context of addiction, it’s more often than not a part of the recovery process. Relapse rates for addiction are similar to those of other chronic diseases, highlighting the need for ongoing treatment and support. Each relapse is an opportunity to learn and adjust the treatment plan.
At Eagles View, we offer various groups and therapies to assist on the journey of recovery. With addiction, there is no cure. But with the right support and assistance, it is possible.
9. Rock Bottom Isn’t Necessary
The idea that a person must hit “rock bottom” before they can recover from addiction is a myth. Early intervention can be more effective and prevent the severe consequences associated with advanced addiction. Waiting for a person to hit rock bottom can result in unnecessary harm and risk.
10. Education Is Key
Numerous misconceptions about addiction just add to the stigma and misunderstanding around it. Educating individuals about the realities of addiction can help dismantle stereotypes, cultivate empathy, and support the development of more effective policies and treatments. Knowledge serves as a significant tool in addressing the effects and prevalence of addiction.
At Eagles View, we help families understand that addiction is a disease. We promote education and believe that fostering supportive environments is key to combating this pervasive issue. With ongoing support, early intervention, and adaptive treatment plans, individuals can fully recover from addiction.
Seeing a loved one struggling with addiction is heartbreaking and isolating at the same time. Eagles View are here to help and guide you when supporting a loved one. Don’t lose hope; recovery is possible. And we are here to help.
