There are a lot of myths about drugs and addiction. Especially on the internet, there is a lot of conflicting information and sometimes it can be confusing. Here are some things you might not know about drugs.
Drugs change the way the brain works
Drugs change how the brain works, and this change in chemistry is part of their addictive nature. These changes can cause damage to different parts of the brain in both the short and the long term. Different drugs change the brain in different ways, but not enough is known about every drug to know what the field range of long-term effects might be.
Stimulant drugs are some of the most addictive drugs there are.
Stimulant drugs are very addictive. Anything that makes you “feel better,” gives you more energy, or raises your mood can quickly become a problem. Stimulants include cocaine, nicotine and amphetamines. As the user enjoys the short-term effects, they may not even realise that they are becoming addicted until it is too late. Sometimes it may even be apparent to other people that there is a problem, before the drug addict even realises it themselves.
Denial is not just a river in Egypt!
Sometimes the drug user realise that is a problem, but refuses to admit it. Denial is a huge part of Addiction and is one of the many things that create a barrier to seeking help. Drug addiction still carries a lot of stigma, as does any addiction. Many people do not believe that addiction is a real problem and is just a weakness of character. This is not true; addiction has been proven to be an actual disease. Commonly thought of to be a type of compulsive behaviour, and when substances are involved the addiction can be physical as well as psychological.
Addiction problems can run in the family
Some people are more likely to become addicted to drugs than others. This depends on a variety of factors. It is now widely accepted that the tendency towards addiction can be inherited via genetics. It’s also been shown that those brought up and parented by addicts are more likely to become addicts themselves in the future.
Cannabis may be natural, but it’s not safe
Cannabis is the most widely used illegal drug in the UK-and many people believe because it is natural that it is safe. This is a myth. Until recently cannabis was not recognised as a physically addictive drug but this has changed. Heavy cannabis users who stop using the drug can suffer from physical withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, digestive problems and an increase of appetite, amongst a range of other symptoms. Therefore it is now recognised that cannabis is, indeed, physically addictive.
Addiction can’t be cured: but it can be treated.
Drug addiction is a progressive disease. A progressive disease is a condition that cannot be cured in the traditional sense of the word, but it can be treated. By arresting the symptoms and learning how to manage cravings and the dangers of relapse, it is entirely possible for someone who has previously suffered from addictive or compulsive tendencies to go forward to live a clean and healthy lifestyle. Drugs Rehab can be difficult, but by admitting the problem and reaching out for help, recovery is possible.