People begin using alcohol or drugs for a variety of reasons. It may start as a way to feel good, relieve stress, improve performance, or peer pressure. Repeated use causes changes to occur in the brain. These changes can last long after the immediate effects of the substance wear off. Over time, they build a tolerance to the substance.
Because of this, they need larger amounts to feel the same effects. Someone may ask themselves, “Am I addicted?” when their substance use starts to interfere with their day-to-day ability to function.
All addictive drugs act on the brain by activating certain reward and pleasure pathways, similar to pleasure when we eat certain foods like sugar, fat, and salt. There is no way to predict who will develop an addiction. There are, however, risk factors that make some individuals predisposed to addiction.
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When it comes to addiction, it may be difficult for someone to admit when they have a problem. Often, it is family and friends who start to see there is a problem before the addicted person does. When substance use begins to have negative effects on someone’s life, it is important to objectively review the facts that indicate a potential addiction. The first step toward recovery is admitting there is a problem. Until then, recovery is unlikely.
The truth is, the earlier addiction treatment begins, the easier it is to go through. Sometimes, people feel they must hit “rock bottom” before they seek addiction treatment. As a result, they may spend years struggling alone before finally hitting their lowest point. It is often during this painful time that people finally reach out for help. Many people are eventually forced into treatment due to the adverse consequences of their addiction.
When people admit they have a problem, and have unsuccessfully tried to quit on their own, it is time to enter a rehab program. This is especially true with substances like heroin and opiates that pose a serious risk of overdose and death. Getting professional addiction treatment helps people take back control of their lives. So, if someone is wondering if they need drug or alcohol rehab, they probably do.
When there is a physical dependence on drugs or alcohol it is highly advisable to get professional help. Withdrawal symptoms during detox from some substances can be very uncomfortable or even life-threatening. A drug and alcohol rehab can help manage withdrawal symptoms, and provide support along with evidence-based addiction therapies. Equally important, addiction specialists design a personalized treatment plan based on each client’s needs.
It may be challenging for you to determine if you’re addicted to drugs or alcohol. The truth is, if you are asking yourself the question “Am I addicted?” then chances are there is a problem that needs to be addressed.
If your substance use is adversely affecting your life, then a substance use disorder may be present. Admitting there is a problem is the first step toward recovery. You are not alone. At Pacific Sands Recovery Center, our compassionate team of specialists can perform a detailed addiction assessment to identify your specific needs and level of care. For those who qualify, we accept, Aetna, and GEHA, and other insurance brands. Get the help you deserve today, and live a healthier tomorrow.
Contact us today to get started on your recovery journey.
Ashley always knew she wanted to be a therapist since she was 13 years old. Ashley believes in helping individuals and families by encouraging openness in communication, restoring trust to self and others, and setting boundaries. Ashley started as an Associate Marriage and Family therapist in 2016 and obtained her license in 2019. Ashley is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment Behavioral Therapist. Ashley has experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of different settings. Ashley obtained her Bachelor’s in Psychology from California State University Long Beach in 2013 and received her Masters Degree in Psychology with an emphasis in marriage and family therapy in 2015.
