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Helping one person might not change the whole world, but it could change the world for one person.
UNDERSTANDING ADDICTION
What is Addiction and can it be treated?
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease defined by a physical and psychological dependence on drugs, alcohol or a behavior. When an addictive disorder has formed, a person will pursue their toxic habits despite putting themselves or others in harm’s way.
An addiction heavily impacts the way a person thinks, feels and acts. Many individuals with addictive disorders are aware of their problem, but have difficulty stopping on their own.
For example, the path to drug addiction may begin with the voluntary act of taking drugs, but over time, a person's ability to choose not to do so becomes compromised. Seeking and taking the drug becomes compulsive. This is mostly due to the effects of long-term drug exposure on brain function. Addiction affects parts of the brain involved in reward and motivation, learning and memory, and control over behavior.
The good news is, addiction can be treated, but it's not simple. Because it's a chronic disease, people can't simply stop using drugs or alcohol for a few days and be cured. Many people require long-term or repeated care to stop using completely so they can recover their lives.
#RecoveryIsPossible
