"Addiction" is defined as a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, approximately half of all Americans have a loved one, a friend, or an acquaintance who has a drug addiction. There is scientific reasoning on why one may become addicted, warning signs, and treatment alternatives which can help a person overcome addiction.
In most cases, one may not understand why or how their loved one becomes addicted. It is often mistaken that a drug abuser lacks morals or self-discipline or they would be able to simply stop using the drug or changing their behavior. In reality, drug addiction is a complex disease, and quitting takes more than good intentions or a strong will. In fact, drugs change the ability of the mind to function correctly, and could easily be more difficult to quit than one may think. Through scientific advantages, we know more about how drugs work in the brain better now than we ever have. Studies show that drugs contain chemicals, such as dopamine, that overpower the brain's communication system and disrupt the way nerve cells normally send, receive, and process information. .
There are several warning signs and changes in personality that people should be aware of. Objective signs of addiction are loss of interest in family and friends, disappearance of money and valuables, verbally and emotionally abusive, not telling the truth, constant excuses, poor self-image, and no concern for anyone or anything. .
Other visible signs of drug addiction are a change in appearance, such as dramatic weight loss or blood shot eyes. The abuser may also have a loss in appetite or sleep. Drug addiction is a preventable disease. It is preventable by simply not doing the drugs themselves, or when a doctor prescribes a drug or medicine, take the instructed dosage.
