A drug addiction can occur in many forms. Some are physical, others are mental, and some can be both. Drug addiction is defined as a pathological condition. If someone has a drug addiction they have a huge craving to consume the drug that he or she is addicted to. Often, the greater the addiction becomes, the amount of drugs consumed also becomes greater in order to experience the desired effects of the drug. Just because someone takes drugs however, does not mean they have a drug addiction. In contrast, when a physical dependency and lack of concern about the effects of drug use on one life occur, this usually does indicate a drug addiction.
What drugs are addictive?
The most common drugs of addiction fall into 3 categories.
- Stimulants
- Sedatives
- Opiates
Stimulants include cocaine, nicotine, and even caffeine! Sedatives include alcohol, benzodiazepines, and methaquolone. Opiates include morphine, the street drug heroin, and prescription pain medication like oxycodone, Vicodin and Fentanyl. These are obviously not the only addictive drugs, but just a brief list. Any drug taken in excess and for the wrong reason can become very addictive and dangerous.
What to do I do if I have a drug addiction?
If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction to one or more drugs, one of the best things you can do is seek help. Remember, addiction is a disease and, like any disease, is best treated with the help of qualified, trained professionals. By contacting professionals who are trained to treat drug addiction, you can begin your journey towards becoming drug free. There are many drug rehab centers, and facilities across the world that focus specifically on helping individuals break free of their drug addiction. Drug rehabilitation programs can help deal with common withdrawal problems and often involve drug detox. Ending a drug addiction can be a large and arduous journey, but it has to start somewhere.