Are you addicted to this too? Let's talk about addiction!

Sometimes we feel like, "Oh, I can't get rid of this," right? It could be a bad habit, or it could be something deeper, an addiction. Today we're going to talk about what it really is, why it happens, and how we can get out of it. This is a bit of a complicated topic, but let's try to keep it simple.

What exactly is addiction?

Simply put, addiction is a strong attachment to a substance or activity, and the person continues to do it without control, despite knowing that it will have bad consequences. It is a chronic condition that can affect the rest of their lives . Think about it, some people know that what they are doing is wrong and that it is harming themselves and others, but they cannot stop and get into great trouble. Addiction can have a big impact on your health, family relationships, work, and everything in life. Therefore, it is very important to seek help as soon as you start to notice the signs of addiction.

Is this a disease?

Yes, addiction is a disease, a sickness . According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), addiction is a chronic brain disorder. It's not a result of a lack of willpower or poor decision-making. Addiction changes the chemistry of your brain . It's like any other chronic disease, like diabetes or heart disease.

What are the main types of addictions?

There are two main types of addictions: 1. Addiction to substances (doctors also call this ``Substance Use Disorders''). 2. Addiction to non-substances, that is, to certain actions (``Behavioral Addictions'').

Substance Addictions

Doctors and the medical community now refer to substance use disorders as ``Substance Use Disorders.'' The American Psychiatric Association's ``DSM-5'', a manual for diagnosing mental illnesses, has clear criteria for diagnosing ``Substance Use Disorders.'' These substances are drugs that have the potential to be addictive. These can be prescription drugs or illegal drugs. Let's look at a few examples:

• Alcohol .
• Caffeine - Yes, some people are also addicted to the caffeine found in coffee and tea.
• Cannabis/Marijuana.
• Hallucinogens - Examples include PCP and LSD.
• Hypnotics, sedatives and anxiolytics - medicines given to people who have trouble sleeping, such as benzodiazepines and barbiturates.
• Inhalants - such as paint thinner, sprays, some gases, and nitrites (poppers).
• Types of `(Opioids)` taken with or without a doctor's prescription -Painkillers like Codeine, Oxycodone , and Heroin.
• Stimulants, whether taken with or without a doctor's prescription - such as Adderall ®, cocaine, and methamphetamine (also known as ice).
• Tobacco /Nicotine - Smoking cigarettes , using electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes or vaping ).

Although these substances are very different from each other, they all work by strongly stimulating the reward center in your brain, giving you a feeling of pleasure and excitement. Substance Use Disorders can develop when you use these substances - but not everyone does. These conditions can be mild, moderate or severe. Addiction is the most severe form of a Substance Use Disorder.

Behavioral Addictions

Behavioral addictions can occur with any activity that stimulates your brain's pleasure center. Behavioral scientists are still researching the similarities and differences between substance addictions, behavioral addictions, and other compulsive behavioral conditions (such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Bulimia Nervosa). Currently, the only behavioral addiction officially recognized in the DSM-5 is gambling disorder. It is in the "Non-Substance Addictions" section. Other behavioral addictions are not included in the DSM-5 because there is not enough research on them yet. However, if any activity or habit becomes so overwhelming that it interferes with your daily activities, it can lead to mental, social, and physical health problems, as well as sometimes financial problems. Some examples of activities that can become addictive:

• Gambling .
• Eating - Some people find it difficult to control their eating.
• Exercising or dieting - Too much of these is also a problem.
• Shopping.
• Shoplifting or other risky behaviors.
• Having sex.
• Viewing pornography.
• Video gaming - This is also called Internet Gaming Disorder.
• Using the internet (e.g. on your phone, computer) - especially social media.

What is the most common addiction?

In the United States, the most common disorder is alcohol use disorder. Next are nicotine and cannabis. About 10% of people over the age of 12 suffer from alcohol use disorder. The situation is very similar in Sri Lanka, especially with problems caused by alcohol and tobacco use.

What are the symptoms of addiction?

The symptoms of addiction vary from person to person and depending on the substance or activity being addicted to. Here are some common symptoms:

• Inability to stop: A person may want to stop using a substance or engaging in an unhealthy addictive behavior, but they may not be able to. They may have tried to cut down several times, but have been unsuccessful. They may lie to their loved ones about this or hide it. For example, a smoker may think every day, "I won't smoke again today," but then they start smoking again.
• Increased tolerance: Over time, you need to use more of the substance or spend more time doing it to get the same pleasure/ enjoyment you used to get. For example, someone who was initially satisfied with a small amount of alcohol will eventually need more to get the same pleasure.
• Intense focus on the substance or activity: People with an addiction are unusually preoccupied with the substance or activity. They may feel like the addiction is taking over their lives because they spend most of their day craving it, trying to get it, and thinking about it.
• Lack of control: They may feel helpless and have no control over their substance use or actions. They may experience feelings of guilt, depression, and a heavy burden for the things that have happened to their lives because of their addiction.
• Personal problems and health issues: Addiction affects every aspect of life - physical health, mental health, personal relationships, work, everything. Substance use or the behavior can cause a person to be unable to fulfill their responsibilities at work, school, or home. In other words, they are unable to stop, even though they know the harm their addiction is causing them.
• Withdrawal: People with addictions may experience mental and physical withdrawal symptoms when they stop using the substance. Physical symptoms may include tremors, sweating, and vomiting. They may also experience mental symptoms such as anxiety and irritability.

Why does someone get addicted to these things?

There is no single cause of addiction - it is a very complex condition .The main reason for addiction is changes in your brain chemistry.

Chemical changes in the brain

Drugs and some activities affect your brain, especially the reward center . As humans, we are biologically wired to seek pleasure and satisfaction. Most of the time, this pleasure comes from healthy things. When you spend time with someone you love, or when you eat a delicious meal, your body releases a chemical called dopamine . This is what makes you feel good. It's like a cycle: You seek these things because they make you feel good. Drugs and some activities (e.g., having sex, spending money) also release large amounts of dopamine into your brain. However, instead of motivating you to do the things you want to do (eating, working, being with loved ones), these high levels of dopamine can have a detrimental effect on your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This can lead to unhealthy cravings for the drug or activity, which can lead to decreased pleasure from healthy activities. Over time, these substances or activities change the chemistry of your brain. You become desensitized to their effects. Then, you need more of them to get the same pleasure you used to. With some substances, such as opioids, the withdrawal symptoms are so severe that you are more likely to continue using them.

Other reasons

There are several other reasons that contribute to addiction:

• Genetics: Research has shown that between 40% and 60% of the risk of developing any substance use disorder is due to genetic factors. This means that if someone in your family (a brother, sister, parent) has the condition, you are at a slightly higher risk. Scientists are still trying to identify the specific genes that contribute to this risk.
• Mental health conditions: There is a strong link between addiction and mental health conditions (e.g., depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder). About half of people with a mental health condition also have a substance use disorder, and about half of people with a substance use disorder also have a mental health condition.
• Environmental factors: Easy access to substances is a particularly influential environmental risk factor. Having family members or friends who use drugs, or being prescribed medications that can be misused (e.g., opioids, stimulants), can increase the risk of exposure to and use of substances.Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) also play a major role here. ACEs are stressful or traumatic events experienced during childhood. These are strongly linked to a variety of health problems, including addictions, that can develop throughout a person's life.

How do you know if you have an addiction? (Diagnosis)

To diagnose an addiction, your doctor may refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or drug and alcohol counselor. Your doctor will ask you (and possibly your family) questions about your substance use patterns and problematic behaviors. The doctor may also want to do a physical exam and may order blood and urine tests. These tests provide information about your overall health. They can also help determine if you have any underlying health conditions.

What are the treatments for addictions?

Your doctor may recommend a combination of treatments, which may include:

• Hospital management: Withdrawal symptoms that occur when you stop using certain substances can be dangerous. You will be monitored and treated in special hospital units to help you recover from these symptoms.
• Medications: Some medications can reduce cravings, cravings, and ongoing withdrawal symptoms. If you have another mental health condition (e.g., bipolar disorder, depression), your doctor may also treat those with medications.
• Rehabilitation/Rehab: This is also called "sober living" or "residential treatment." Rehab centers provide structured counseling, education, support, and encouragement. You may receive treatment either by staying in a rehabilitation center (inpatient rehab) or by attending scheduled sessions (outpatient rehab). Rehabilitation services focus primarily on helping you manage your addiction and live a healthy life long-term.
• Counseling and Therapy: Various treatment methods can help people with addictions gain new perspective and change their behaviors. Your doctor may recommend psychotherapy (talk therapy), such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or group therapy.
• Support groups:Many people manage their addictions with the help of a support group. For example, Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Groups like Al-Anon provide support for the families and friends of people with substance use disorders. These groups provide people with an opportunity to share their experiences and receive ongoing support.

What kind of life can you lead if you recover from addiction? (Outlook)

With treatment, many people manage their addictions and live full, healthy lives. However, recovering from substance use disorders and behavioral addictions is not easy . Supportive friends, family, and doctors play an essential role in making this treatment successful.

Without treatment, addiction can lead to serious health problems and even death. It can destroy personal relationships, cause financial hardship, and lead to legal problems. Untreated addiction can also harm families, and the effects can last for generations.

Are there things we can do to prevent addiction?

There are several things you can do to reduce your risk of developing an addiction:

• Avoid or limit the use of addictive substances: Avoid or limit the use of non-prescription drugs. Always follow your doctor's instructions when using prescription medications. If you think you may be addicted to a prescription drug, tell your doctor immediately.
• Know your family history: If someone in your family has had a substance use disorder or behavioral addiction, you may be at increased risk. Talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.
• Managing stress healthily: The risk of substance use increases significantly during times of stress and life change. It is important to find healthy ways to cope during these times (e.g., exercise, meditation, taking up a new hobby). If you are having trouble managing stress, consider seeing a mental health counselor .

How do you help someone with an addiction?

Finding out that someone you love has a behavioral addiction or substance use disorder can be very challenging and stressful. Here are some tips to help your loved one and yourself:

• Speak up early: The sooner someone with an addiction gets treatment, the better. Express your concerns and help them find treatment as soon as possible. Call a helpline, talk to a doctor or mental health counselor , suggest they enroll in a treatment program, or go to a 12-step program. Offer your help and support without judgment.
• Practice empathy: Even if you don't agree with your loved one, listen carefully to what they have to say. The more your loved one feels like they have someone who understands them, the more likely they are to see you as someone they can trust.
• Be patient: Don't expect your loved one's addiction to be cured with one conversation or one action. Substance use disorders and behavioral addictions are complex, chronic conditions, and there are no quick fixes.
• Think about yourself too: Friends and family of people with addictions often experience stress, depression, sadness, and loneliness. It's important to think about your own mental health and seek help if you have these symptoms. Consider joining a support group or organization in your community.

Do you need to see a doctor?

Addiction is a serious illness. If you think you or someone you care about may have an addiction, talk to a doctor right away. Treatment and support groups are available to help.

Finally, remember this (Take-Home Message)

So, in conclusion, addiction is not a disease, it is not a weakness of the mind or a character flaw. It can happen to anyone, just like diabetes or high blood pressure. The important thing is that it can be overcome. If you or someone you know is suffering from this condition, you are not alone. Don't be afraid to ask for help, don't be ashamed. Talk to a doctor, a counselor, or a trusted adult. With the right treatment and support, millions of people have overcome these addictions and are living happier, healthier lives. The journey may be difficult, and there will be setbacks along the way, but don't give up. You can definitely overcome this. ` Addiction, Addiction, Drugs, Alcohol, Gambling, Treatment, Mental Health