Drug Abuse and Addiction Information
Why do people use drugs?
Basically people use drugs because they like the way drugs make them feel. Pleasure is a powerful force. If you do something pleasurable, your brain is wired in such a way that you want to do it again. All drugs that are addicting can activate and affect the brain's pleasure circuit.
What is drug addiction?
Addiction is a disease that affects your brain and your behavior. You have control over your choice to start using drugs, but once you start, the pleasurable effect of drugs makes you want to keep using them. Over time, your brain actually changes in certain ways so that a powerful urge to use drugs controls your behavior. This is what it means to be addicted to drugs. Someone who is addicted uses drugs without thinking or caring about the consequences.
What drugs can cause addiction?
People can become addicted to both illegal drugs and drugs that doctors prescribe. Commonly abused illegal drugs include marijuana (pot), hallucinogens (PCP, LSD), methamphetamine (speed, crank, crystal, meth), cocaine and crack, and heroin. People can also become addicted to things they may not think of as drugs, such as alcohol.
Aren't prescription drugs safe?
When prescription drugs are taken the right way, they are safe and there is little chance of addiction. However, prescription drugs can be dangerous if they are abused (for example, taking too much or taking them when they're not needed). Some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs are painkillers and anti-anxiety drugs.
Possible Signs of Drug Abuse
- Trouble paying attention
- Being more forgetful than usual
- Missing work or school
- Being more moody than usual
- Trouble sleeping
- Paranoia (feeling that people are "out to get you")
- No interest in things you used to enjoy
Can drug and alcohol addiction be treated?
Yes, but addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease. It may take a number of attempts before you can remain free of drugs or alcohol.
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