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The Dangers of Drug Addiction

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People who abuse drugs often find they need a higher and higher dose to achieve the same high they got when first using. This puts them at more risk of an overdose, and means any drug use needs to be detected and treated promptly.
Many families who never thought drug addiction would be a problem with their loved ones find out it is, due to easy access to legal and illegal substances. Painkillers, for example, are now being sold on the street for cash because they produce the high addicts are after. Painkillers can also be abused even when a doctor has legally prescribed them for an existing medical condition. What should we look for when it comes to the use of drugs and what steps should be taken when someone needs help with addiction?

Signs of Drug Abuse

Users often exhibit physical signs of drug abuse. A person may notice a loved one’s eyes are glazed or bloodshot on a regular basis, or their pupils may appear constricted or dilated. Be aware that there are other causes for these symptoms, but if they are seen regularly with no other identifiable cause, you should suspect the loved one is using drugs. Any sudden weight changes may be a sign someone is using, but again may be attributed to other causes. When a person begins sleeping more than usual or doesn’t appear to need as much sleep as he or she has in the past, this may be a sign of substance abuse.
The best way to determine where the problem lies is to have this individual seen by a medical professional. Doing so can help eliminate other potential causes and determine if drugs are the problem. But be aware that certain drugs are originally prescribed for a legitimate purpose and the person becomes dependent on them and begins abusing them. The doctor will need to know about this history and why it is believed use of the prescribed medication is now of concern.

The Symptoms of Substance Abuse

Behavioral issues often arise when someone uses or abuses drugs. Those around the individual may notice he or she struggles to focus and think clearly. Aggression or irritability is often reported with users and a change in their personality or attitude may be seen. Depression and lethargy have been reported by many people using drugs, while major changes in the priorities or habits of the user might be observed. Criminal activity often accompanies drug use and abuse, and the individual may start hanging around new people who use drugs as they do. Any noticeable change in someone’s behavior should be investigated to determine if drugs played a role.
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Help with Addiction

Treatment for addiction comes in many forms. In fact, patients often find they need to use a combination of methods to achieve a full recovery. Patients frequently require medication to help them through the initial withdrawal from drugs, which may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms, seizures, anxiety, restlessness, tremors or other symptoms. Once the patient has moved past the withdrawal portion of the treatment, behavioral counseling typically begins and he or she may also be treated for any co-occurring mental health disorders. Skills training could be a part of the rehabilitation process along with family counseling to ensure the addict has everything he or she needs to sustain the recovery process. Most patients find they need long-term follow up care to decrease their chances of relapsing and returning to the drug of choice. How should one go about choosing care for the addict? What should loved ones be looking for to ensure this individual has the best chance of success?

Rehabilitation Centers Help With Addiction

When a person goes to learn about treatment for a loved one suffering from an addiction, he or she will find countless treatment centers to choose from. Some are inpatient facilities while others provide services on an outpatient basis. Lake Wellness Center offers outpatient services. The facility may cater to a certain sector of the public or be open to any person wishing to obtain help. Certain centers offer additional services, such as art therapy or equine-based treatment, for example. This may play a role in choosing a facility for someone who struggles with addiction. Keep this in mind as you move forward with the process.
Research several rehabilitation centers to learn about the services they offer and how they can help. Most rehabilitation center websites now provide a phone and fax number along with their hours of operation so families can contact the center with any additional questions.
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Addiction is an ongoing process. Simply because a person quits using their substance of choice for a few days doesn’t mean they are cured. They will need long-term care and support to ensure they remain substance-free and get their lives back under control. This means they need to stop using the drug, remain free of the substance, and become a productive member of society once again. What works for one individual may not be appropriate for another, but don’t give up. There is a treatment plan that works for every person. It’s simply a matter of finding the right one for his or her specific needs. Contact Lake Wellness Center now.
Remember that what works for one person when it comes to drug rehabilitation may not be suitable for another. Consider the unique needs of the user and decide based on those needs. If one approach does not work, do not give up. Try another. Addiction is not a problem that can be overcome overnight.
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