
A drug addiction is a mental disorder characterized by habitual engagement in pleasurable activities despite ill-effects. It is caused by intense drug use, often without regard to its adverse effects. Drug addiction has the following characteristics: (I) the compulsive nature of drug-taking; (ii) the recurrent relapse of drug-users; (iii) the inability to sustain abstinence even when faced with withdrawal symptoms; (iv) the continued use of drugs despite the presence of negative physical, emotional and social consequences; (v) the continued involvement in drug-using activities despite the fact that they have been demonstrated to be injurious to health and life. Drug addiction is a serious disorder that is usually difficult to treat. If you think that you may be suffering from a drug addiction, you should seek professional help. A treatment program can help you recover from your addiction and lead a productive life.
There are three types of drug addiction. The first type is based on physical dependence on drugs, which is called alcohol abuse and/or drug dependence on sedatives such as sleeping pills and heroin. The second type is based on emotional dependence on drugs, which is called drug addiction or dependence on certain psychiatric medications, such as alcoholics or those suffering from depression. The third type is based on the psychological dependence on drugs, which is referred to as substance dependence. The treatment methods used for all three types of drug addiction vary widely. The treatments for drug addiction depend on the kind of dependence that is involved. In all cases, it is important for a person to seek professional help if he thinks he may have a drug addiction.
The first step in the process of treatment is in identifying the specific cause of the addiction. This is usually done through careful observation of the patient’s behavior, emotional makeup and other physical and psychological manifestations. Treatment also involves the development of a treatment plan, based on the needs of the patient and the kind of addiction he is suffering from. After successful completion of a treatment program, a certified substance abuse specialist or doctor can evaluate the situation and can recommend a suitable treatment program for the patient.