10 Life-Saving Facts About Addiction

Addiction is one of the complex diseases that people are suffering from nowadays. Every time you research it, you come across surprising facts. For example, 3.1% of adults show signs of drug dependence in England.

And as addiction rates continue to spike across the country, more people have acquaintances with someone struggling with addiction. They could be anyone from a family, friends group, or co-workers who are falling into the grips of drugs and alcohol. And you will see them functioning abruptly in everyday life. However, addiction counselling can make A recovery possible. While most people understand these consequences, the following facts about addiction tend to surprise many people. 

10 Facts About Addiction

1. Addiction is a Disease

Addiction is not a seasonal disease like a cold, cough, or flu; rather, it is something that changes the brain. It alters the brain structure by releasing higher dopamine levels and making a person dependent. As a result, people suffering from addiction find it difficult to control their urges for drugs and alcohol. Even if they want to quit, they find it impossible without professional addiction help.

2. Addicts May Feel Isolated

Most people with addiction may develop feelings of isolation and loneliness. It happens because they feel different from everyone else, and nobody can understand what they are going through. Also, the isolated feelings make it difficult for family and friends to offer support. However, if you are suffering from addiction, you must remember that you are not alone in this fight and that addiction help is available.

3. Addiction is a Lifelong Illness

People need lifelong management when it comes to addiction. Just like any other chronic disease, people with addiction may experience relapse and remission. However, with correct addiction counselling plans and adequate family support, people can live long, healthy lives in recovery.

4. Dependence Increases Tolerance

Most people with addiction build up a tolerance for drugs and alcohol because of regular consumption. Meaning they need drugs to function normally. For example, they may feel dizzy, lazy, or find it challenging to get through the day without using drugs and start neglecting responsibilities at home, work, and school. Likewise, dependence can lead to tolerance when people use more substances than usual to get the necessary buzz.

5. Addiction Can Affect Anyone

Regardless of age, gender, race, and socio-economic status, addiction can affect people from different walks of life. It doesn’t discriminate between poor and rich, healthy and unhealthy, male and female, etc. Also, mental health issues, self-doubt, lack of confidence, or low self-esteem can be the top reasons for developing an addiction.

6. There is No Exact Cause of Addiction

Addiction doesn’t have any single cause. Instead, it is a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. While some people suffer from addiction due to genetic disorders or family history, others may be prone to addiction because of mental health disorders.

7. Addiction Withdrawal is Dangerous

When an alcoholic or a drug user stops using the same, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. It happens because your body becomes dependent on alcohol, and when you stop, the body experiences shock. While the body tries to re-adjust, you experience withdrawal symptoms in the meanwhile. These symptoms can be physical and psychological. The physical symptoms include sweating, shaking, and even seizures. On the other hand, psychological symptoms include anxiety, depression, and irritability. These symptoms can also become severe without any medical addiction help.

8. Addiction is Not Limited to Drugs and Alcohol

People often recognise only drugs and alcohol as a means of addiction. However, it is not true. People get addicted to anything from shopping, gambling, and sex to food. A few per cent of people also experience behavioural addictions, such as exercise, work, and social media addiction.

9. Recovery Requires Lifestyle Changes

Addiction recovery in UK isn’t easy but possible with the help of addiction help. Get started by making significant changes in your life, such as avoiding places with alcohol and drugs, changing the friend circle, or finding a new job in a sober environment. You can also spend time doing healthy activities, such as going for a walk, making art, listening to music, and attending yoga classes. A robust support system at home or work can help you build a healthy, sober life and overcome addiction.

10. Early Intervention is More Effective Than Waiting to Hit Rock Bottom

One myth people believe about addiction is that people need to hit rock bottom entirely before seeking professional addiction help. However, the moment you realise that your loved one has an addiction, seeking treatment is vital. There is no need to wait for extreme conditions or severe symptoms to show. Instead, it is prudent for people suffering from addiction to get into rehab as soon as they identify the warning signs. Also, if your loved one isn’t addressing their problem of drinking or smoking, you need to stage an intervention.

Wrap Up

Though addiction is a complex disease, there are many misconceptions or myths that people believe. This article combined the legitimate facts about addiction that help understand addiction better than before. Also, it explains that addiction recovery in UK is possible despite being dangerous. So, what are you waiting for? If you have discovered that your loved one is struggling with addiction or recognised the early warning signs, it is time to get into rehab for addiction help. Check out the addiction counselling plans and choose the right one!