There is a saying that goes: “No drug on earth can make life meaningful.” And yet, that’s precisely why people continue to abuse substances: to feel better, add excitement and meaning to their lives, or fill some emotional void. The fact that we still reach for things that harm us, even after seeing so many lives destroyed, is truly overwhelming. Sadly, many possess the mentality of being invincible, which ultimately leads to their demise.
Only those who have struggled with addiction in one form, or another know how serious the issue is. Whether it is opiates, alcohol, gambling, pornography, or prescription drugs, the downward spiral is pretty much the same for all. What starts as innocent gratification of the senses quickly turns into a nightmare: addicts focus on feeding the monster, not caring if they hurt their loved ones along the way. Click here for more information.
Just because they let substances take over their lives does not mean it is over: rehab centers are founded to get addicts back on track. Following step-by-step programs for a certain period allows their bodies and minds to regain their natural composure. The fight is easier for some and harder for others; will and determination are key factors here.
How Can Things Go Wrong?
People develop addictions for many varied reasons, from broken homes to failed marriages, to unfulfilled careers. When we spot an obvious addict on the street, the easiest thing in the world is to judge and write them off. In fact, many who have lost their way are not strong enough to cope by themselves, and support becomes the only way out. The first step is to understand the addict’s personal circumstances to provide empathy and a helping hand.
One possible trap for children or teenagers is falling in with the wrong crowd. Parents are justifiably concerned when they want to meet their kids’ friends. It is not because they are control freaks – they just want their offspring to be safe. Unfortunately, teenagers often take this wrong and develop a rebellious attitude. Add peer pressure to the situation, plus the need to look or act cool, and the consequences can be disastrous.
Even if someone chooses their friends wisely and leads a healthy lifestyle, sometimes addiction can result from a traumatic experience. The illness or death of a loved one, sexual abuse, and post-combat disorders are only a few examples where you have little influence over what happens. These traumas can be so intense that an individual gets a false impression of helplessness. A drink or two to ease the pain can turn into full-blown alcoholism in the blink of an eye. Visit https://www.wishtv.com/news/indiana-addiction-specialist-recovery-from-alcoholism-is-100-possible/for more.
Underlying causes such as anxiety and depression are also major triggers for addiction, especially in recent times. One can feel enough pressure at home, at the workplace, or as part of a toxic relationship to develop personal insecurities, so they try to relax in the worst possible way. Sometimes a spouse can fall under the influence of their addicted partner, often to the detriment of their children.
The Role of Genetics
For some reason, we tend to overlook genes when talking about addiction and only blame the individual for their actions. They should know better; it is their own fault; stay away from them – we have all uttered at least one of these sayings, consciously or unconsciously. However, scientific research shows that genetic factors can make a person susceptible to addiction.
Dopamine receptors in our brains play a role in potential addictions. For instance, some of us have fewer D2 receptors than others, which increases the chances of substance abuse. Of course, this does not mean that the lack of receptors will automatically turn you into an addict: a child whose parents are alcoholics is unlikely to become one if raised in a household where excessive drinking is condemned. This means that the environment plays a major, if not the decisive role.
Let us take the example of a family where the grandfather, the father, and the son, are all alcoholics. It is hard to determine precisely if their addictions come from genetics, subconscious imitation, or shared habits due to living under the same roof; it is a combination of all three. Whatever the case may be, one can entirely avoid addiction if they’re aware of its dangers and make a conscious effort to protect their health.
Seeking Treatment
Once addicted, a person no longer has a clear perspective of what matters in life. Again, all that matters is sustaining that addiction, no matter the consequences. People are willing to sacrifice their lucrative careers, happy families, and healthy bodies to get the next fix. Because they have lost touch with reality, they need someone from outside to help them recover and live a normal life again.
Everyone has heard of AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) and similar long-standing organizations that have helped countless people overcome their demons. The crucial thing for addicts is not to feel embarrassment or guilt; unfortunately, these feelings usually stop them from getting help. However cliché it may sound, they need to realize that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Though some tunnels are longer than others, they can go on only by looking forward.
In the US, millions of people struggle with addiction every year, though only a part of them seek treatment. Rehab centers encourage them to make a move before it is too late, and it only takes one phone call or an IM to begin the journey of recovery. Places like Chapters Capistrano and other specialized institutions have proven instrumental in guiding people through rough times, and many have conquered their addictions after completing their programs.
Final Words
No matter how hopeless a situation may seem, there is only a way out. Though rehab centers and supportive friends are precious in overcoming an addiction, the recovery road truly begins once the addict becomes fully aware they are in deep trouble and take initiative to re-invent and re-integrate themselves into society. The best day to start is today.
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