Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center in Spanaway
Addiction refers to a chronic illness characterized by compulsive drug search and use. Addiction can make it difficult to quit. The majority of people will choose to use drugs. However, prolonged drug abuse can lead to brain alterations. These changes can make it difficult for people to exercise self-control and decrease their ability to resist the temptation to use drugs. A "relapsing" disorder is defined as drug addiction due to the persistent brain changes. This means that even after a period without substance use disorder, people in recovery are more likely to go back to drug use.
Relapses may be normal but don't mean the treatment is failing. It is important to treat a chronic condition as a continuous process, depending on how the patient responds. This also applies for other chronic illnesses. It is important that treatment plans are regularly reviewed and modified to meet patient's changing needs.
Is it possible to overcome or prevent drug addiction?
Similar to other chronic disorders like diabetes, asthma, or heart disease, the majority of the time, drug addiction therapy does not lead to a full recovery. The symptoms of addiction, on the other hand, can be successfully handled. For a long time, possibly the rest of their lives, people who are trying to overcome an addiction are at risk of relapsing. It has been demonstrated that the most effective approach for the majority of patients to treat addiction is a mix of medication and behavioural therapy. Utilizing treatment approaches that are tailored to each patient's history of drug use as well as any accompanying physical, mental, or social concerns can help them maintain their sobriety.