When is the last time you had a conversation about addiction? It probably was no

Question

When is the last time you had a conversation about addiction? It probably was not recently, if ever. Face it: this is not the kind of thing most people choose to discuss.

Because people don't talk much about this subject, there are many aspects of addiction that people do not understand. In fact, most of us probably have misconceptions about addictions.

Please research what some of these myths are. Find out, based on your research, whether or not these myths are true.

Some people think alcoholics can stop drinking on their own, without help, for good, if they were to just have will power. Do you think that is true? Is marijuana addictive? Are addictions simply bad habits?

Explanation / Answer

Addiction is also known as substance dependence. Substance dependence is when an individual cannot do without the substance that they have been taking for over years. It is a strong physiological and a psychological urge that needs to be fulfilled. The chemical reactions in the brain, make a person crave for it, even if they are off any kind of substance for a day. Their mind and body is dependent on the substance for normal functioning of life.

The tolerance level for substance dependence is extremely high. A person with time, feels the urge to take more and more and increase the dose over a period of time. The body gets used to a certain amount and reaches a plateau and has no effect on the brain. The dosage needs to be increased in order to feel satiated and euphoric.

No, alcoholics cannot stop drinking on their own, without help. 'Quitting' leads to withdrawal symptoms for substance dependence, which makes it very difficult for a person to carry out a normal functioning life as it massively interferes. The withdrawal symptoms include, shivering, nausea, tremors, chills and etcetera. Psychological difficulties include, sliding away into depression, anxiety and irritability.

Different therapies need to be introduced to help a person lose their dependency on alcohol. The intervention includes, aversion therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, contingency management, medication and unconditional love and support from family and friends.

Yes, of course, any drug is addictive. All drugs have the same effect on the brain which leads to a person feeling ecstatic and keeps them going for more. Addictions are habitual. No addiction is good. Addiction basically means a person being fully dependent on something.

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