Addiction is a complex disorder that is difficult to overcome. People sometimes feel that addiction is a choice or sign of weakness, but this isn’t true. In reality, addiction is a brain disorder characterized by an intense and persistent urge to engage in certain behaviors. It’s important to understand addiction as a disease, as this will help you to be more compassionate to your loved one’s struggles.
The important thing to know is that people can heal from addiction. But in order to do this, your loved one needs to build a strong support system, develop healthy ways to cope and engage in new, rewarding behaviors. Let’s learn more about why addiction is hard to overcome and the importance of finding the right treatment center in Arizona.
How Repeated Drug Use Hijacks the Brain
Addiction and substance use disorders are often misunderstood. When you love someone who abuses drugs or alcohol, it can look like they’re making a choice. But this is far from the case. Years of research show that substance use disorders are complex, chronic medical conditions that impact how the brain functions.
Through research, scientists have found that the brain has a reward system. Behaviors that help us survive, like eating food and being intimate, produce small increases in neurotransmitters. These brain chemicals are related to pleasure and make us feel good, causing us to repeat certain behaviors.
However, drugs can hijack the brain’s reward system by mimicking neurotransmitters. They create powerful effects compared to normal activities and can have the following consequences:
- It becomes harder to enjoy normal activities like reading or exercising.
- People come to rely on drugs and alcohol to feel ‘normal.’
- Suddenly stopping or reducing drug use can cause negative emotions and withdrawal symptoms.
- The brain builds stronger connections between drugs and the cues associated with them.
- Triggers – people, places and things associated with drug use – can be hard to avoid.
- Circuits in the brain that are responsible for self-control and stress tolerance are weakened.
All of these changes that happen in the brain make it difficult for a person to stop using drugs and alcohol, despite the negative consequences and harm they cause.
Substance Use Disorders are Treatable
While drugs can change the brain, the treatments for addiction can, too. It takes time, but people can successfully heal from an addiction when they get the right support to relieve withdrawal symptoms and manage triggers.
It’s important to know that substance use disorders require rehab in AZ – they do not get better on their own. Fortunately, there are many types of treatment options, allowing you to find a good match. An inpatient drug rehab is more intensive and ideal for treating severe addictions and mental health issues.
An outpatient drug rehab in AZ is a step down from inpatient care, providing a number of support services while the person lives at home. It’s important to recognize that addiction treatment is a continuum with many levels of care. Some individuals start with an inpatient program, while others choose an IOP program in Prescott.
Finding the Best Rehab Centers Near Me
If you are looking for rehabilitation services in the Prescott area, Wolf Creek Recovery is happy to assist. We are an outpatient treatment center that offers various levels of care. You can start or continue your journey with us.
Not only do we offer therapy, counseling and medication, but also outdoor therapy, recreational activities, art and music, fitness and nutrition, life skills training, meditation, yoga and so much more. Contact our recovery centers in Arizona to explore your options for healing and recovery.
Finding purpose in pain is what Jonathon does best. He is a strong advocate for those suffering from substance use disorders. As a person in recovery, Jonathon knows how important it is to receive empathy and compassion. He recognizes that each person comes from a different set of circumstances and deserves to be valued and respected.
With a fresh perspective and compassionate attitude, Jonathon works closely with clients to help them let go of the past and know when to take necessary risks. The recovery process is ongoing, which means people need to move forward while applying the skills learned in treatment. Jonathon is a great motivator when it comes time for this!
Jonathon also places emphasis on the family unit and how it can make or break the recovery experience. Individuals with active, supportive families have far better outcomes. Jonathon realizes that it’s impossible to move mountains overnight, but with the right support team and positive attitude, anything is possible.
