Understand How Alcohol and Drug Addiction Develops – Alcohol and drug addiction always starts by either Using an addictive drugs for recreational (illicit or prescribed) Abusing an addictive prescription medication, Using alcohol and progressing to drug use
2. The cycle of addiction is clearly defined. The length of time before becoming addicted may vary but the physical and psychological process of addiction remains the same for everyone. You take a drug or a drink for fun, for a medical condition and the body becomes dependent upon the drug or alcohol. The brain chemistry in the brain is altered and the body and psyche than require the drug to avoid withdrawal symptoms. It takes work and commitment to remain abstinent once addiction has grabbed hold of you. With professional help, addictive behaviors can be arrested and abstinence can be maintained.
3. If You Have a Drug or Alcohol Abuse Problem, Get Help Now – Alcohol and drug abuse and alcohol and drug addiction are defined differently. A person who uses heavily and then can abruptly stop is considered to be abusing alcohol or drugs. Once the body requires the alcohol or drugs to stop withdrawal symptoms, addiction has taken place. The line between abuse and addiction is not solidly defined, as a person may be abusing alcohol and drugs and suffering the negative consequences of addiction. Abuse will generally turn into addiction if it is not treated.
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5. Avoid Temptations and Peer Pressure – You may have heard the expression, "You’re only as good as the company you keep," and in reality, that statement is true. If you have friends or family members who pressure you to use alcohol or drugs, avoid them. Make new friends who practice healthier habits, who do well in school, who motivated at work, who have goals. Develop goals for yourself and dreams. Remember, alcohol or drug use can turn to addiction rapidly; one never plans on