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Find the Support You Need to Recover: Overcoming Drug Addiction Together

Reconnect with Life by Healing from Drug Addiction

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Drug addiction is a complex issue that affects millions of people around the world. From prescription drugs to illegal substances, drug abuse can have serious consequences on individuals and their loved ones.

Drug addiction is a complex and serious condition that can have devastating consequences. It affects individuals and families across the country, and seeking help is crucial for recovery.

If you or someone you know is struggling with drug addiction, know that recovery is possible. With the right treatment and support, you can overcome drug addiction and reclaim your life.

What is Drug Addiction?

Drug addiction has long been stigmatized as a personal failing, but the medical community now recognizes it as a chronic relapsing brain disease. Like Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), drug addiction is diagnosed based on specific criteria outlined in the DSM-5.

The criteria for drug addiction include:

  • A strong desire or compulsion to use drugs
  • Difficulty controlling drug use, including unsuccessful attempts to quit or cut back
  • Physical dependence on drugs, including withdrawal symptoms when not using
  • Tolerance, meaning the need to use more drugs to achieve the same effects

Drug addiction affects individuals physically, psychologically, and behaviorally. The effects of drug use can lead to mood and behavior changes, damage to relationships, and problems at work or school.

Massachusetts Drug Addiction Statistics

  • Over 20 million adults in the US have a substance use disorder
  • This is close to 10% of the adult population
  • 1 out of every 10 people you meet may have a substance use disorder
  • There is a substance use epidemic in the US
  • Opioid addiction gets a lot of attention, but other drugs like heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, cannabis, benzodiazepines, and stimulants are also misused and have serious consequences.

What are Commonly Abused Drugs?

Cocaine

Cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant drug. It can be snorted, ingested, injected, or smoked. Cocaine creates an intense surge of energy and a feeling of euphoria in users that can last for minutes. However, it also has serious short-term side effects such as increased heart rate, high blood pressure, paranoia, and agitation.

Methamphetamines

Methamphetamines, commonly referred to as “meth” or “crystal meth”, are powerful and highly addictive stimulant drugs that can be smoked, snorted, injected, or swallowed. They produce an intense rush of energy and pleasure but also carry tremendous health risks such as addiction, severe depression, and an increased risk of overdose.

Heroin

Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive drug that is derived from morphine, a natural substance that is extracted from the seedpod of the Asian opium poppy plant. It typically appears as a white or brownish powder, or as a black sticky substance known as black tar heroin.

Heroin can be consumed in a variety of ways, including injecting it into a vein, snorting it, smoking it, or using it in pill form. However, injecting heroin is the most common method of use, and it is also the most dangerous.

Heroin can have numerous devastating consequences on both the physical and mental health of the user. The immediate effects of heroin use can include a rush of euphoria, drowsiness, and clouded mental function. Over time, heroin use can lead to a range of serious health problems, such as collapsed veins, infections of the heart and lungs, kidney and liver disease, and even death from overdose.

Marijuana

Marijuana addiction is a real concern and continues to be a constantly growing problem in Cape Cod and other parts of the U.S. Many addiction treatment centers like ours, provide evidence-based treatments that address underlying causes of addiction, such as intense cravings, relapse triggers, and disturbances in sleep and mood.

Signs and Symptoms of Drug Addiction

If you suspect that someone you know may be struggling with drug addiction, there are some warning signs to look out for:

  • Using drugs in larger amounts or for longer than intended
  • Unsuccessful attempts to stop or cut back on drug use
  • Spending a lot of time and money obtaining drugs
  • Continuing to use drugs despite the negative consequences, such as health problems, legal issues, and strained relationships
  • Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
  • Engaging in risky behaviors, such as driving under the influence or sharing needles
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit using drugs

Drug Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms for drug addiction can vary depending on the drug and the severity of the addiction, but some common symptoms include:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Irritability
  • Fatigue
  • Insomnia
  • Nausea and Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Sweating
  • Tremors and Shaking
  • Muscle Aches and Pains
  • Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
  • Seizures (in severe cases)

Don’t Wait, Call Now for Medical Attention

It’s important to note that withdrawal from certain drugs, such as benzodiazepines and alcohol, can be life-threatening and should only be done under medical supervision. If you or someone you know is experiencing withdrawal symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

Relief Recovery Center provides personalized addiction treatment services in Cape Cod, MA to help individuals on the path to recovery.

Treatment for Drug Addiction

Recovery from drug addiction is not a one-time event, but rather an ongoing process. It requires commitment, dedication, and a willingness to make lifestyle changes. There are various treatment options available to individuals struggling with addiction, including inpatient treatment, outpatient programs, individual therapy, and support groups. While each option may differ in structure and intensity, they all share the common goal of providing individuals with the tools and resources they need to maintain sobriety and live a fulfilling life in recovery.

Alcohol detox programs in Massachusetts

Detox

For individuals who are physically dependent on drugs, detox offers a secure setting under medical supervision where withdrawal symptoms can be managed.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) Rehab Massachuetts

Day Treatment Program

Day Treatment provides structure and supervision while providing more intensive care. It allows individuals to stay at the hospital or facility during the day while living at home in the evenings.
individual therapy for addiction

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

IOPs provide intensive care and support to help individuals develop sobriety skills. They are recommended for those at a higher risk of relapse or who require more intensive care.
How Much Is Rehab

Outpatient Program (OP)

Outpatient programs allow individuals to continue their daily routines while receiving treatment for their addiction. These programs typically involve attending therapy sessions and support groups multiple times per week.
cbt for substance abuse

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy gives an individual with a drug addiction the chance to discuss their drinking habits with a trained professional in a private setting. It can assist in identifying potential relapse triggers and give strategies for overcoming cravings.

If You Need Help Overcoming Substance Use, We’re Here to Support You, Just Take the First Step!

Contact Relief Recovery Center for a consultation and begin your journey to recovery. When making a call to Relief Recovery Center you will be greeted by one of our care coordinators who will guide you through a quick and easy process to start you on your path of recovery!