Addiction is a disease. Some substances are more naturally addictive, while others are more prone genetically to certain substances. Some individuals may exhibit substance abuse but never become addicted, while others due to family tree genetics, may experience addiction very easily to certain substances. It is important to always avoid dangerous substances but also be careful with legal substances that can become addictive. This involves temperance but also knowing one’s family history with addiction. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification
Is part of addiction a heredity and genetic thing? Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification
The article, “Is Addiction Hereditary?”from Cleveland Clinic healthessentials takes a closer look at heredity and addiction. The article states,
“The genetic connection to addiction comes through inherited levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter made in your brain. Think of dopamine as your brain’s reward center. Basically, it acts as a “feel-good” hormone. High levels of dopamine can fuel poor impulse control and tilt someone toward addictive behaviors. “Now, that doesn’t mean that if you have the genes, or if you have family members that have struggled with addiction, that you’re going to develop an addiction”, explains Dr. Anand. “It just means you’re more prone to it.” In other words, genetics indicate a predisposition — not a destiny.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.
Addiction can be social but in most cases it is genetic. Addition in the brain compels an individual to become physically dependent upon the substance. This is by far a stronger addiction than social and peer influences. The individual actually becomes addicted in the brain to the new substance. It is hard to say who or who will not become addicted to a particular drug, based on the chemical makeup of the drug itself and also the genetic makeup of the individual. This is why it is critical to avoid addicting substances. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Program if you wish to help others face addiction.
The process of addiction starts in the brain. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Program and see if it meets your professional goals
The article, “The Science of Drug Use: How Substance Use Can Lead to Addiction” by Simbiat Bakare looks closer at the process of addiction within the brain and its neuro transmitters. He states,
“Substances like marijuana, heroin, amphetamine, and cocaine tap into the brain system, causing the neurons to release large amounts of natural neurotransmitters which are chemical brain messengers that amplify a user’s craving for hard drugs. With drug users indulging their cravings, the brain adapts to the surge in dopamine and other neurotransmitters by reducing the number of receptors, thus making the user take a higher dosage of drugs to get the desired euphoria.”
“The Science of Drug Use: How Substance Use Can Lead to Addiction”. Simbiat Bakare. June 15th, 2022. NET.
Addiction is a state of compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli, despite adverse consequences. It is a brain disorder characterized by compulsive engagement in activities that are intrinsically rewarding (e.g., eating, sex, gambling) and/or by compulsive engagement in activities that are extrinsically rewarding (e.g., working, caring for others). The former group of activities is typically referred to as natural rewards, while the latter group is typically referred to as conditioned rewards. Addiction is a complex condition that is characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior and continued use despite harmful consequences. Addiction is caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, social environment, and psychological factors. The initial decision to take drugs is voluntary for most people, but repeated drug use can lead to brain changes that challenge an addicted person’s self-control and interfere with their ability to resist intense urges to take drugs.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a term used to describe the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. The term encompasses a range of activities, from binge drinking and occasional drug use to addiction and dependence. Substance abuse is a serious public health problem. It is estimated that one in four adults in the United States has engaged in some form of substance abuse at some point in their lives.
Substance abuse is the overindulgence in or dependence on a psychoactive substance, especially alcohol or drugs. Though often associated with illegal drugs, alcohol and prescription medication can be just as addictive and damaging. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. Drugs change the brain in ways that make quitting hard, even for those who want to.
Addiction and the Brain
The brain’s job is to constantly receive information from the body and decide what to do with it. The brain also has to keep track of what is going on around us in our environment.
Addiction occurs when drugs or alcohol change the way the brain works. There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that addiction is, at least in part, a brain disease. This is because addiction appears to change the structure and function of the brain, which then leads to changes in behavior. These changes in the brain can be long-lasting and can lead to the harmful behaviors seen in people with addiction.
The behaviors that stem from brain issues due to addiction cause an individual to feel a sense of compulsion or obsession with a particular activity. These behaviors can be harmful to the individual’s health and well-being, but they may continue to engage in them despite the negative consequences. There are many different types of addictive behaviors, but some common ones include substance abuse, gambling, sex, and shopping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a complex disease that changes the brain in ways that make it difficult for people to control their impulses and make healthy choices. While there is no easy solution, treatment can help people recover from addiction and lead fulfilling lives.
Addiction and recovery are difficult topics to discuss. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to addiction, and recovery is a lifelong process. However, there is hope for those struggling with addiction, and many resources available to help them on their journey to recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out for help.
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling. Those who become certified can offer aid to those affected by addiction. Many certified members work in lower tier positions under the guidance of a licensed professional at addiction clinics or addiction services. Licensed social workers and licensed counselors benefit from earning a certification to enhance their resume and practice in helping others deal with the dangers of addiction.
Additional Resources
“Neurocircuitry of Addiction”.George F Koob & Nora D Volkow. Neuropsychopharmacologyvolume 35, pages217–238 (2010). Access here
“What is addiction?”. Harvard Health Blog. September 12th, 2021. Harvard Health Publishing. Access here
“What is addiction?”. Alyssa Peckham. June 3rd, 2021. MedicalNewsToday. Access here
“What Is Addiction?”. Psychology Today Staff. Psychology Today. Access here
“What causes addiction?”. Adam Felman. November 2nd, 2018. MedicalNewsToday. Access here
“Biology of Addiction”. October 2015. News In Health. Access here
With opioids being cut off for many with pain issues, there is an upward climb towards the use of cannabis and alcohol. In fact, this trend has led to cannabis and alcohol becoming the top two treated addictions in the United States. Individuals are turning to other ways to cope with pain, or even problems. The availability of these drugs make it far easier to become closely connected to them. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification
There is an increase of alcohol and cannabis use. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.
The 12 step program is a mile stone process in recovery from alcohol and drugs. It stems first from a voluntary intent to change and then the process of completing that transformation. This involves recovering a complete freedom from the substance and maintaining that freedom from it to change and even help others maintain that freedom from it. It always realizes that addiction is ever present and diligence is required. One cannot simply return to the former master and source of the addiction if one truly hopes to live a free life from it. Hence the process helps one maintain the necessary support and coping strategies to build an independence from the substance albeit addiction is always lurking to reclaim the person.
The 12 step program is about first the personal choice to admit a problem exists. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program
The article, “The 12 Steps of Addiction Recovery” by Michelle Pugle reviews the 12 steps and its importance in changing so many lives. Pugle gives some emphasis on the qualities of each step starting with admitting one has a problem to the intermediate steps of building self to to maintaining and preserving self to serve others. Serving others is the ultimate and last step and gives the person purpose beyond his or her own short fallings prior and encourages the person to help others find the same freedom. She states,
“Alcoholics Anonymous or AA is the original recovery program that brought the world the 12 steps of recovery. The 12 steps have since been applied to other substances and types of addictions in recovery programs like Marijuana Anonymous, Al-Anon and Alateen for loved ones of alcoholics, Codependents Anonymous for people stuck in toxic relationships, Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and Workaholics Anonymous.”
“The 12 Steps of Addiction Recovery”. Michelle Pugle. April 12th, 2022. Verywellhealth.
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. It is considered a brain disease because drugs change the brain—they change its structure and how it works. These changes alter the way the person behaves, thinks, and feels. People with addiction often have trouble quitting because of powerful cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. Most people with addiction need help to stop using; however, treatment can be effective.
12 Step Program
A 12 step program is a set of guiding principles outlining a course of action for recovery from addiction, compulsion, or other behavioral problems. In many cases, the 12 steps can be applied to a wide range of disorders, providing a framework for solving these issues. . The steps are designed to promote positive change in individuals struggling with addiction, and to support their continued sobriety. The 12 steps address issues such as powerlessness, denial, and isolation; they emphasize the importance of admitting one’s wrongs, making amends, and helping others who are still struggling. The original twelve steps were published in the book Alcoholics Anonymous in 1939
The first step of the 12 steps is admitting that one has a problem. This step is important because it allows individuals to begin the process of recovery and start to take responsibility for their actions. It is also a crucial step in developing a support system and seeking professional help.
The second step of the twelve steps is to come to believe that a power greater than ourselves can restore us to sanity. This step requires us to have faith in something larger than ourselves, whether it be a higher power, the universe, or simply the belief that we are not alone. This step helps us to realize that we are not in control of everything and that there is something out there that can help us to overcome our addiction.
The third step of the twelve steps is to make a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understand Him. This is a critical step in the process because it requires us to surrender our ego and pride and admit that we are powerless over our addiction. Once we have made this decision, we can begin to work on Step four, which is taking a moral inventory of ourselves.
The fourth step in the twelve steps is to make a searching and fearless moral inventory of ourselves. This means that we need to take a look at our lives and examine our behaviors honestly and critically. This can be a difficult process, but it is essential in order to move forward on the journey of recovery.
The fifth step of the twelve steps is to admit to God, ourselves, and another human being the exact nature of our wrongs. This step is important because it allows us to take responsibility for our actions and begin the process of change. By admitting our wrongs, we are able to start making amends and begin the journey to recovery.
The sixth step of the twelve steps is to become entirely ready to have God remove all these defects of character. This step requires a rigorous and honest self-examination in order to identify our shortcomings. Once we have identified our defects, we must then humbly admit them to God, ourselves, and another human being. This step is essential in our journey towards recovery as it allows us to let go of our ego and begin the process of healing.
The seventh step of the twelve steps is to humbly ask God, as you understand God, to remove your shortcomings. This is a critical step in the process because it requires individuals to take responsibility for their own actions and to seek help from a higher power in order to improve themselves. This step also helps individuals to develop a sense of humility and to realize that they are not perfect.
The eighth step of the twelve steps is to make a list of all the people you have harmed and become willing to make amends to them all. This is an important step in the process of recovery as it allows individuals to take responsibility for their past actions and begin to make things right with those they have hurt. By taking this step, individuals can start to repair relationships that may have been damaged by their addiction.
The ninth step of the twelve steps is to make amends with those we have harmed. This includes anyone we have harmed in any way, including emotionally, mentally, or physically. We must also try to make amends with those we have harmed even if they do not want us to or if they are deceased. This step helps us to take responsibility for our actions and to try to make things right with the people we have harmed.
The tenth step of the twelve steps is to continue to take personal inventory, and when we are wrong, promptly admit it. This step is important because it helps us to keep our egos in check and maintain our humility. By continuing to monitor our thoughts and actions, we can catch ourselves when we start to slip into old patterns of thinking and behaving. And by admitting our mistakes, we can learn from them and avoid repeating them in the future.
The eleventh step in the twelve-step program is to seek through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understand Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.
The final step in the 12 steps is to carry the message of recovery to others who are still suffering. This is done by sharing one’s own experience, strength, and hope with others, and by serving as a role model of sobriety. In doing so, recovering addicts help to break the cycle of addiction and provide support and encouragement to those who are still struggling.
Conclusion
It is true that the program is very much theistic but those without religion can lay claim to a moral code that exists above them as a source of anchoring oneself to something more than oneself. The general concepts of admitting problems, acting on problems, taking accountability, apologizing to others, maintaining oneself and helping others are all critically important steps for anyone facing addiction.
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling. Many individuals who work in the 12 step program may also find the certification as a benefit to help lead groups or help others through addiction. It can enhance resumes for this type of particular work with others facing addiction.
Additional Resources
“Drug treatment and 12-step program participation: The additive effects of integrated recovery activities”. RobertFiorentine Ph.D and Maureen PHillhouse Ph.D. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Volume 18, Issue 1, January 2000, Pages 65-74. Access here
“Spirituality and recovery in 12-step programs: An empirical model”. MarcGalanter M.D. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment Volume 33, Issue 3, October 2007, Pages 265-272. Access here
“Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12‐step programs for alcohol use disorder”. John F Kelly Keith Humphreys Marica Ferri. March 11th, 2020. Cochrane Library. Access here
The science of addiction looks at how one goes from non use to habit to addiction. Addiction can be in many forms to multiple things from drugs and substances to even actions and various activities. It is important to never let one thing dominate one’s life and to always remain balanced and moderate in all actions.
The nature of addiction has multiple causes for different people. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification
The article, “Why do we become addicted to things? Recognizing the top 10 most common addictions” by Dawn Jorgenson looks at the tops types of addiction and the addiction process. She states,
“As many people can probably guess, most of us aren’t born with an addiction, so how do people become addicted to something, anyway? The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration says it happens gradually, but it always begins with experimentation. Experts say that when broken down, addiction is a mental disorder — a compulsive engagement with something that makes a person feel rewarded or happy, despite the fact that the experience can bring unfavorable consequences.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.
Protecting one’s child and teen from drug abuse is a large concern in parenting. Drug abuse can not only harm one’s child academically but also potentially lead to premature death. With so many different type of substances and drugs available, parents need to educated and prepared to help their teens deal with the pressure and dangers of drugs.
It is important to help teach your teen how to stay drug free. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification
The article, “10 tips to safeguard your teen against substance abuse” from High Way Mail lists ten things a parent can do to better protect teens. The article states,
“Teens need structure to stay safe. Setting clear rules about drugs and alcohol can help. You can’t guarantee that your rules won’t be broken but research shows that teens who have clear rules, even if they’re broken, are less likely to get into serious trouble than teens who don’t.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.
Prescription drug abuse is a chronic problem in the United States. Misuse and illegal transfer of prescriptions, especially pain pills and ADHD medications are a big problem for many people. Addiction, especially to opioids are on the rise and physicians are becoming more reluctant to prescribe addictive medications. There is hope to overcome this addiction but it involves determination and desire to move away from these types of drugs.
Prescription drugs when misused can cause serious addiction problems. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification
The article, “How Prescription Drug Addiction Is Treated” by Michelle Brooten-Brooks looks closer at how these types of addictions are treated. She states,
“In 2020, 1.2 million people in the U.S. misused prescription pain relievers.1 Prescription drug addiction often starts with medically-prescribed needed use, such as following surgery or injury. Gradually, use becomes misuse, resulting in substance use disorder or addiction. When that occurs, prescription drug addiction treatment is necessary.”
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.
Addiction plays out within the body and the mind and it can cause very distressing symptoms. Fortunately, drug addiction can be treated once the person finally accepts the reality he or she is addicted and takes the steps to regain one’s life. Understanding addiction is key for recovery. Addiction counselors can help teach individuals what addiction is and how to better cope with it. It is hence critical to have a complete understanding how addiction controls the body and negatively affects the brain and its functioing.
Addiction has multiple negative effects on the body and mind. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification
The article, “The Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain and Body” by Laura Dorwart looks closer at how addiction affects the brain and body. She states,
“If you’re experiencing drug addiction, you’re not alone. Drug addiction is common, but it’s also preventable and treatable. The earlier you seek help and inform yourself about the effects of drug addiction, the faster you can achieve long-term recovery.”
“The Effects of Drug Addiction on the Brain and Body”. Laura Dorwart. January 24th, 2022. VeryWellHealth
Substance Abuse Counselors and other mental health care professionals can help. To review the entire article, please click here
Commentary
Addiction can be defined as a pathological condition characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli, despite adverse consequences. It is a state of profound psychological dependence on the substance or behaviour, and results from dysregulation of the mesolimbic reward pathway in the brain. The condition is characterized by habituation to certain behaviours or substances, leading to maladaptive patterns of consumption and a propensity to continue use despite associated negative outcomes.
Addiction and the Body
The effects of addiction on the body can be multifaceted and far-reaching. Physically, individuals who are addicted to substances may experience an array of deleterious physiological implications, such as changes in their autonomic nervous system, endocrine system, metabolism and immune function. Moreover, addiction can lead to a variety of cardiorespiratory conditions due to prolonged substance abuse. Additionally, addiction has been linked to various neurological impairments and psychological dysfunctions including depression and anxiety. Studies have demonstrated that long-term use can cause structural and functional changes to various organ systems such as the cardiovascular system, the respiratory system, and the gastrointestinal system.
When one attempts to push away from a particular substance, withdraw can occur as well. Addiction and withdrawal are phenomena involving the dysregulation of homeostatic systems in an organism resulting from an interplay between environmental stimuli and physiological states. Specifically, addiction is a maladaptive response to conditions in which an individual continues to engage in a behavior despite potential consequences, whereas withdrawal is the physical or psychological symptoms that occur when ceasing such behavior. The underlying mechanisms for these processes remain elusive, however proposed theories focus on potential neural pathways associated with the reward system and positive reinforcement.
Addiction and the Brain
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite adverse consequences. Neurobiological research suggests that addiction exerts its influence through alterations in the reward circuitry of the brain, which involves multiple neurotransmitters and reward pathways. These changes occur through a process of neuroadaptation whereby drug-induced stimulation of the reward system results in an increase in neuronal activity and synaptic plasticity.
Addiction impairs the functioning of different neural circuitry within the brain. It is characterized by an inability to control the use of drugs or other substances, despite the negative consequences associated with its use. Neurobiologically, addiction is thought to be caused by alterations in dopamine neurotransmission in reward pathways which may lead to a dysregulation of these systems and impairments in cognitive functioning.
Overcoming Addiction
The process of overcoming addiction is typified by the individual engaging in a series of cognitive, behavioral, and emotional interventions that are aimed at altering the maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors associated with their substance use. This includes developing healthier coping skills to manage cravings, triggers, and other environmental cues that may lead to relapse. With appropriate psychological support, individuals can learn to recognize and modify negative thought patterns that can underlie problematic substance use.
Once an individual begins to notice a trend, they can seek help to free themselves from the addictive process. Usually this results in understanding the numerous negative effects of the particular addiction on one’s personal relationships, finances, and overall health. No addiction can be overcome until one consciously chooses to make an effort to change and become better. Those with better support groups and stronger coping abilities find better success in this endeavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, addiction is a serious issue that affects millions of people worldwide. It can manifest itself in many forms and have dramatic impacts on the individual and those around them. While it may be difficult to break free from addiction, there are resources available to help those suffering. It is important to remember that addiction is a treatable condition with the right support and guidance. Every person battling addiction deserves understanding and compassion, as well as respect for their courage in addressing this difficult situation.
In addition, addiction has severe and long-lasting physical effects on the human body. This includes an altered brain chemistry, organ damage, and even changes in physical appearance. These effects can be counteracted by seeking professional help, abstaining from drugs or alcohol, and participating in healthy activities. Taking care of one’s physical health should be a priority when dealing with addiction. It is important to remember that recovery is possible and it starts by taking small steps towards a healthier lifestyle.
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling Training. Through this training, qualified professionals can better be equipped to help individuals deal and cope with addiction.
Additional Resources
“Causes of Addiction”. Psychology Today Staff. Psychology Today. Access here
“Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts”. June 2018. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Access here
“How Science Has Revolutionized the Understanding of Drug Addiction”. Nora Volkow, MD. July 2020. National Institute on Drug Abuse. Access here
“Understanding the Science of Addiction”. Richard Friedman, MD. April 20th, 2022. Weill Cornell Medicine. Access here
Marijuana may seem like an innocent drug but like any drug it can lead to addiction. While many states legalize it, like alcohol, this lower tier drug if misused can can cause problems for individuals who are unable to utilize it recreationally. Furthermore states that have not legalized it can still prosecute and jobs can still deny employment who fail drug tests due to it.
Like any substance, Marijuana can be abused. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Training
The article, “Marijuana Abuse and Addiction: Know the Signs” by Jaime Herndon looks at Marijuana abuse and how to help those who have issues with it. She states,
“While many people use marijuana (it’s the third most commonly used addictive drug, after tobacco and alcohol) most won’t become addicted. About 1 in 10 people who use marijuana will become addicted; when they start using before the age of 18, the number increases to 1 in 6.2 Research suggests that about 30% of people who use marijuana might have marijuana use disorder, the severity of which can vary.3 Cannabis use disorder is widely defined as problematic use of cannabis that results in significant distress or impairment with at least two issues within a 12-month period, like the substance use results in not being able to meet work, social, or familial obligations, or the substance use continues even after it’s affected or caused interpersonal issues.”
While cannabis is not as likely as other drugs to cause addiction, it still can happen and like many things, it can disrupt life is misused. One needs to ask why one needs to utilize any substance, beer, wine or marijuana to escape life. To read the entire article, please click here
Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Training and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse.
Addiction is a disease that can affect a person’s behavior and also cause physical problems. How to identify addictive behaviors and addiction itself is important in living a healthy life. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Program to learn more about addiction and how it affects individuals.
Addiction can steal one’s life Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your professional and academic goals and needs
The article, “Signs of Addiction Denial” by Geralyn Drexter reviews the nature of addiction and the issues that go with it. She states,
“Addiction is a brain disease characterized by compulsive behaviors that continue despite harmful or negative consequences.1 Usually, people envision drug or alcohol use when they think about addiction. However, addiction can include a variety of behaviors, including substance use, gambling, and sexual fantasies, urges, and actions. People living with addictions may deny their behavior. This article explores the signs of addiction denial and when to seek help.”
Please again also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals. The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification
