Understanding Addiction and Substance Use Disorder

Witnessing a loved one struggle with substance use can be bewildering. Despite the evident harm, they continue to use drugs or alcohol.

Addiction, or substance use disorder (SUD), is not a choice, but a biological disease.

It’s crucial to understand that addiction, or substance use disorder (SUD), is not a choice, but a biological disease. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains that SUD rewires the brain, altering motivation, risk assessment, and pleasure. With the progression of this disease, substance use becomes less about seeking pleasure and more about avoiding discomfort.

How Substance Use Disorder Begins

The initial use of drugs or alcohol is typically voluntary, often to cope with negative emotions or curiosity about certain experiences. Dependency develops as the substance starts interfering with the brain’s neurotransmitters, causing significant alterations to mood and mental state.

The substance-induced surge of dopamine creates a feedback loop that is difficult to break.

One such neurotransmitter is dopamine, which reinforces pleasure-seeking behavior. The substance-induced surge of dopamine creates a feedback loop that is difficult to break. The habitual use of substances reduces the pleasure derived from healthy activities, leading to a constant need for higher doses—a phenomenon called tolerance, which can lead to dangerous conditions like overdose.

Preventing Substance Use Disorder

Early intervention is key to preventing substance use disorders. Understanding risk factors and early warning signs can help.

Risk factors include early exposure to substances, genetic predisposition, poverty, and lack of supervision.

Risk factors include early exposure to substances, genetic predisposition, poverty, and lack of supervision. Warning signs range from increased substance usage and secretive behavior, to physical sickness when not using, and extreme mood swings.

If your loved one exhibits these signs, it’s time to seek professional help. Despite the strength of addiction’s grip, evidence-based treatments are available to help individuals overcome it.

Despite the strength of addiction’s grip, evidence-based treatments are available to help individuals overcome it.

Family-Centered Services offers a range of solutions, including case management, family therapy, and sober monitoring. Our team of licensed clinicians will tailor a program specific to your needs, guiding you towards a life free from addiction’s influence. Learn more by contacting us at (509) 991-5822.

Originally posted 2022-07-08 07:00:00.