Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center in Martha Lake
Addiction is a chronic condition that results in obsessive, difficult-to control substance seeking and drug use despite its negative effects. Although most people choose to quit using drugs, repeated drug use can lead to brain changes that reduce self-control and make it difficult to resist cravings. These brain alterations can have a lasting effect, and are why drug addiction is called a "relapsing' disease. People who have been treated for substance abuse problems may be at greater risk of relapsing even after years.
Relapse is normal, but does not mean treatment is ineffective. As with any chronic disease, treatment should continue and be adjusted according to the patient’s response. You must evaluate your treatment plan often to ensure that it is always changing according to the patient's needs.
What effects does drug usage have on the mind?
The "reward circuit" in the brain is where drugs are most effective. It induces pleasure and floods it with the chemical messenger, dopamine. A functioning reward circuit encourages people to perform life-sustaining acts such as eating, and spending time together. Dopamine boosts in the reward system encourage addictive but dangerous behaviours, such drug usage.