Addiction
What is addiction? And how can we treat it?
Addiction is an inability to stop using a substance or engaging in a behaviour even though it is causing psychological and physical harm. The term “Addiction” does not only refer to dependence on substances such as heroin or cocaine. Some addictions also involve an inability to stop partaking in activities such as gambling, eating, or working. Addiction is a chronic condition that can also result from taking medications.
Types of addiction:
Addiction is a condition of being addicted to a particular substance, thing or activity. There is substance addiction and non-substance addiction. Some examples of non-substance addiction include:
- gambling
- food
- internet
- gaming
- cell phone
Someone with addiction will continue to misuse the substance or activity in spite of the harmful effects it has.
Symptoms of addiction:
The primary indications of addiction are:
- declining grades or difficulty at school
- poor performance at work
- relationship difficulties, which often involve lashing out at people who identify the addiction
- an inability to stop using a substance even though it may be causing health problems or personal problems, such as issues with employment or relationships
- a noticeable lack of energy in daily activities
- profound changes in appearance, including weight loss and a noticeable abandonment of hygiene
- appearing defensive when asked about substance use
Treatment:
Medicinal advances and progress in diagnosis have helped the medical community develop various ways to manage and resolve addiction.
Some methods include:
- medication-based treatment
- behavioural therapy and counselling
- medical devices to treat withdrawal
- treating related psychological factors, such as depression
- ongoing care to reduce the risk of relapse
Addiction treatment is highly personalized and often requires the support of the individual’s community or family.
Treatment can take a long time and may be complicated. Addiction is a chronic condition with a range of psychological and physical effects. Each substance or behaviour may require different management techniques.
Summary:
A person with addiction is unable to stop using a substance or engaging in a behaviour even though it has harmful effects on daily living. Addiction treatment can be difficult, but it is often effective. The best form of treatment depends on the substance and the presentation of the addiction, which varies from person to person. However, treatment usually involves medication, counselling, and community support.
We should address the addiction problem and help people for an addiction-free life.
~Maryam Javed.
