In the United States, nearly 15 million adults struggle with a substance abuse disorder. The cycle of addiction can lead to damaged relationships, housing instability, and financial distress. Addiction can also cause significant physical and mental health problems. While you may want to stop using drugs or alcohol, if you struggle with addiction it may be challenging to do so without help from a Northern IL addiction treatment center.
Throughout the cycle of addiction, drugs and alcohol change your brain chemistry. These changes can lead to intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms, as well as other detrimental effects. Substances like opiates and alcohol can worsen underlying medical and mental health problems, making it hard to regain stability during active addiction.
What is the Cycle of Addiction?
The cycle of addiction begins with using drugs and alcohol for the first time. While many people can control their substance use, some people enjoy the euphoric effects far more than others. The intense pleasure caused by drugs and alcohol can make it easy to become dependent upon them.
As you begin using more frequently, your body starts to build a tolerance to your substance of choice. When your tolerance increases, you must increase your use in order to feel the same pleasurable effects. Once you begin increasing your use, you may experience symptoms and signs of addiction, which include:
- Neglecting responsibilities and obligations in order to use
- Spending the majority of your time and/or money using or acquiring drugs or alcohol
- Using in dangerous environments
- Changes in your behavior and personality
- Difficulty controlling your drug or alcohol use
- Experiencing physical and/or psychological withdrawal symptoms when you stop using
When your brain and body become physically and psychologically dependent on a substance, not only can you experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, but you may also deal with intense cravings. Even if you want to stop using, you can crave drugs or alcohol, making it difficult to quit. Triggers, which are people, places, or things that cause cravings and can lead to relapsing.
Treatment Options
Nearly half of all people in recovery from a substance abuse problem relapse. Those who seek help from a treatment center are less likely to relapse long-term. The cycle of addiction makes quitting drugs and alcohol difficult, as addiction is incurable. However, treatment can help you manage the condition and achieve sobriety.
Inpatient treatment options occur in a residential setting and may or may not include detox services. Medically supervised detox allows trained medical staff to supervise you during withdrawal and administer medications to alleviate your symptoms. Outpatient treatment can meet anywhere from 2 to 7 days a week in a therapeutic setting.
Both inpatient and outpatient treatment utilize evidence-based treatments, like dialectic and cognitive behavioral therapy and individual and group counseling. Treatment centers may also offer medication maintenance.
Finding Help Today
If you or a loved one is ready to break the cycle of addiction, reaching out for help is the first step. Northern Illinois Recovery Center, the best northern IL addiction treatment center available, knows what it takes to beat addiction. Call us today at 855.786.1978 to learn more about your treatment options.
