Addiction – Drug and Substance Abuse

Introduction

Drug addiction (also known as substance use disorder) is a progressive disease that causes individuals to lose control over the use of substances despite worsening consequences. Substance use disorder can be life-threatening and is not a problem of willpower or morality; it is a powerful and complex disease. People who have an addiction to drugs cannot simply quit, even if they want to. The drugs change the brain in a way that makes quitting physically and mentally difficult. Treating addiction often requires lifelong care and therapy.

What Drugs Lead to Addiction?

Drugs that are commonly misused include:

• Club drugs (GHB, ketamine, MDMA, Rohypnol)
• Stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine)
• Hallucinogens (ayahuasca, LSD, peyote, PCP, DMT)
• Inhalants (solvents, aerosol sprays, gases, nitrites)
• Marijuana
• Opioid painkillers (heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine, morphine)
• Prescription drugs and cold medicines
• Sedatives, hypnotics, anxiolytics (anti-anxiety medications)
• Steroids (anabolic)
• Synthetic cannabinoids (K2 or Spice)
• Synthetic cathinones (bath salts)
• Tobacco/nicotine and electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes or vaping)
• Uppers and downers (various stimulants and depressants)

While these drugs are different, they all strongly activate the addiction center of the brain, making them habit-forming.

Why Do People with Substance Use Disorder Need More and More Drugs Over Time?

Over time, the brain is changed by drugs, becoming desensitized so that more of the drug must be used to produce the same effect. As the person consumes more, drugs start to take over their life, causing social, family, and work obligations to fall to the side. The person with substance use disorder (SUD) feels something is wrong if they aren’t under the influence of the substance and becomes consumed with the need to recapture that original feeling.

Who Is at Risk for Substance Use Disorder?

Causes & Risk Factors for Addiction:

• Genetics (family history of substance abuse)
• Starting substance use at an early age
• Easy access to drugs or alcohol, especially at a young age
• Exposure to heavy advertising of substances (like alcohol)
• A current mental health diagnosis
• Low parental monitoring
• A high amount of family conflict
• A history of abuse or neglect

How Common Is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder and alcohol use disorder are leading causes of preventable illness and early death. Research shows that about 1 in 9 Americans uses illicit drugs (about 11% of the population), with the most commonly misused drugs being marijuana and prescription medications.

How Might Substance Use Disorder Affect Me?

Drugs affect the brain, especially the “reward center.” Humans are biologically motivated to seek rewards. Drugs send massive surges of dopamine through the brain, leading to damaging changes that alter thoughts, feelings, and behavior. This creates an unhealthy drive to seek pleasure from the drug rather than from healthy experiences.

Symptoms and Causes

Why Do People Take Drugs?

• To enjoy the pleasurable experience
• To blunt unpleasant feelings
• To improve performance at work, school, or athletics
• Out of curiosity or peer pressure

Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder:

• Bloodshot eyes and looking tired
• Changes in appetite (usually eating less)
• Changes in physical appearance (poor complexion, looking ungroomed)
• Craving drugs
• Difficulty completing tasks at work, school, or home
• Engaging in risky behaviors despite knowing the negative consequences
• Inability to reduce or control drug use
• Issues with money
• Weight loss

Understanding Deaddiction: A Personalized Approach

Deaddiction is a deeply personal journey. At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., we recognize the uniqueness of each individual’s struggle. Whether it’s opioids or any other drug, the path to recovery requires a tailored approach. We employ evidence-based practices, compassionate support, and a commitment to addressing the root causes of substance abuse.

Navigating Withdrawal and Cravings

Withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings are common hurdles in the deaddiction process. We provide a supportive environment to navigate these challenges, offering coping strategies and therapeutic interventions to manage discomfort and maintain focus on recovery.

Identifying Triggers and Underlying Issues

Understanding the triggers that lead to substance abuse is crucial. We work collaboratively with individuals to identify these triggers and explore the underlying issues that contribute to the cycle of addiction. By addressing these root causes, the journey to lasting recovery becomes more sustainable.

Building a Supportive Network

Breaking free from substance abuse often involves building a supportive network. We emphasize the importance of fostering connections with loved ones and, when needed, integrating support groups into the deaddiction journey. A strong support system can provide encouragement, understanding, and accountability.

Setting Milestones and Celebrating Progress

The deaddiction journey is marked by milestones, both big and small. We assist individuals in setting achievable goals and celebrate their progress along the way. Recognizing and acknowledging these achievements is vital for maintaining motivation and sustaining positive change.

Embracing a Clean and Free Future

Choosing a life of sobriety is a courageous decision. At Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd., we are dedicated to guiding individuals toward a clean and free future. Through therapy, individuals can unlock the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges without resorting to substances, fostering a renewed sense of empowerment and resilience.

If you are ready to break free from the chains of substance abuse, we at Listening Ear Counselling & Consultancy Pte. Ltd. are here to support you. Take the first step toward a clean and free future – a future where you are in control of your choices and can embrace life with clarity and purpose.

Warning Disclaimer

Please note: Unprescribed drugs are illegal in Singapore, and trafficking in drugs is punishable by death. As a registered counsellor with the SAC and SPS, we are bound to report any illegal act to the authorities. While we do not ever judge, we are law-abiding and committed to helping you on your journey to recovery without any judgment.