Understanding Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is the state of being enslaved to a habit or practice or to something that is psychologically or physically habit-forming to such an extent that its cessation causes severe trauma. Addicts often times do not realize or believe they are addicted, even if they show all the signs.

Drug addiction includes: the inability to control drug use, even when it causes bodily harm, a constant, intense craving for the drug(s), and potential harm to both the body and mind.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS:

• Loss of control

• Neglecting other activities

• Risk taking

• Relationship issues

• Secrecy

• Disheveled appearance

• Increased tolerance to drug(s)

• Withdrawals

RISK FACTORS

1. Family History of Addiction

Drug addiction is more common in some families and likely involves genetic predisposition. If you have a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling, with a drug problem, you are at greater risk of developing a drug addiction.

2. Being Male

Men are more likely to have problems with drug abuse than women are. However, progression of addictive disorders is known to be quicker in females.

3. Having a Mental Health Disorder

If you have a mental health disorder such as depression, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder, you are more likely to become dependent on drugs.

4. Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is a strong factor in starting to use and abuse drugs, particularly for young people. Research confirms that most adolescent drug users are introduced to this behavior by friends or people that they know.

5. Lack of Family Involvement

Difficult family situations or a lack of a bond with parents and/or siblings may increase the risk of addiction.

6. Taking a Highly Addictive Drug

Some drugs, such as stimulants, cocaine, or painkillers, may result in faster development of addiction than other drugs.

*Information found at http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/basics/risk-factors/con-20020970

TREATMENT & SUPPORT

There are several options to choose from when considering the types of treatment and support available to substance users. Some of those options include:

EIU Counseling Center

EIU’s Counseling Center offers addiction counseling to EIU students. Addiction counselors can help patients resist the temptation to keep using or for recovering addicts to use again. To make an appointment, visit www.eiu.edu/counsctr or call (217) 581-3413.

 

EIU Collegiate Recovery Community

The EIU CRC provides an empowering environment where students living in, or seeking, long-term recovery from substance use disorders and other quality of life concerns can successfully realize their goals of academic success and an improved quality of life. The EIU CRC mission is to help students maintain a sober and healthy lifestyle in order to fully engage in their academic, social, and personal pursuits. If you are interested in joining the CRC, contact the Health Education Resource Center at (217) 581-7786 or e-mail herc@eiu.edu.

 

Treatment Programs

Depending on the severity of the addiction, inpatient or outpatient treatment programs may be beneficial. These programs often offer recovery from the effects of addiction through individual and group counseling, as well as provide social support to maintain a drug-free lifestyle.

 

Additional information regarding drug addiction may be found at http://www.eiu.edu/herc/otherdruginformation.php.