Addiction and Addictive Substances

Addiction is a complicated physical and psychological condition, put simply it is a dependency on a substance or action/behaviour which in turn shapes the addicts physical, psychological and emotional well-being.

If an addict becomes reliant either on drugs or alcohol, when the substance is denied, they will often suffer cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. Once dependency on a particularly substance is established, the desire for that substance can become the motivating force in the addicts life. Addiction can interfere with and damage the addicts home, work and social life. Addiction is not usually immediate but will develop over a period of time and with repeated use.

The types of Addiction

Addiction can take two forms and addicts will often experience a combination of both. The forms are physical dependency and psychological dependency.

Physical Dependency – this occurs when an addiction to a particular substance, be it drug addiction or alcohol addiction, has developed over time. The misuse of the substance alters the natural balance of chemicals in the body therefore creating a necessity for the substance in order for the addict to function. Addicts will experience withdrawal symptoms if they are denied the substance.

Psychological Dependency – this can occur, not only in cases of substance abuse, but also applies to addictions like gambling, sex and self-harm. A person who is suffering from psychological dependency could experience symptoms like mood swings, irrational anxiety and cravings.

Why do people become addicted?

Occasionally people are predisposed genetically to addiction. This means that they are more likely to develop an addiction because of their genetic makeup. People are often influenced by their social groups and peer pressure which is why young people can be particularly vulnerable. People who have existing psychological or emotional problems are also vulnerable.

Addictive Substances

Alcohol – Alcohol is highly addictive and yet widely available. Misuse of alcohol can have negative consequences for the health and lives of both the alcoholic and their family. Alcohol is a depressant but at the same time lowers our inhibitions by blocking out reality. Whilst under the influence of alcohol we believe that we are functioning better than in fact we are.

Nicotine – Nicotine is one of the most addictive substances and contributes to a high percentage of deaths worldwide annually both directly and indirectly. Nicotine is present in tobacco and therefore cigarettes. Nicotine is a powerful stimulant but can also have a relaxing effect.

Drugs – in a similar way to alcohol addictive drugs block out reality. They work by altering the mood of the addict creating an artificial high.

Heroin is a natural opiate made from morphine which is derived from the opium poppy. Opiates act by dulling pain and are highly addictive. Over time addicts have to take larger and larger quantities in order to get the same result.

Cocaine is a powerful stimulant which temporarily speeds up the processes of the brain and body. It is very addictive and creates a strong psychological dependency because of the way it alters the brains function.

Cannabis is the most commonly used illegal drug in the UK. It is made from part of the cannabis plant. It has a mild sedative effect and is a mild hallucinogen. Cannabis is addictive over time.

Addiction to any substance or behaviour is a complicated physical and psychological condition. The problem has to be handled in a sensitive, perceptive and professional manner. The solution is in better education about alcoholism and drug abuse along with professional, multi-disciplinary alcohol treatment and drug rehabilitation clinics, well directed and managed alcohol and drug support groups and high quality medical advice.

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