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Substance Misuse & Addiction Come In Many Forms

Addiction is a BIO-PSYCHO-SOCIAL-SPIRITUAL disease.

According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) the definition of addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors.

Addiction is characterized by the inability to consistently abstain; impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response.

Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without addiction treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death.

Woman Suffering from Substance Abuse

Addiction Treatment

Addiction treatment is meant to help individuals suffering from addiction to stop seeking and using drugs. Additionally, addiction treatment should help individuals not only stop using drugs but continue to stay drug-free and be helpful in family life, work and society all together.

For the majority of people, the most effective addiction treatment plan is a long-term process that involves several interventions and continuous monitoring. Gateway Rehab believes in the philosophy that addiction requires an ongoing recovery process.

Successful addiction treatment requires various steps including:

Step 1: Detoxification

Step 2: Behavioral Counseling

Step 3: Medication

Step 4: Evaluation & Treatment

for co-occurring mental health issues

Step 5: Long-term follow up

to prevent relapse

Today more and more people are bravely seeking drug or alcohol addiction help. Many are transforming their lives not only by conquering their addictions but getting back the lives they once had.

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Drug Addiction/Alcohol Addiction Signs & Symptoms

To recognize when someone is facing drug addiction/alcohol addiction, there are several signs to be aware of including:

Symptoms

  • Sleep difficulties
  • General lack of interest or being overly energetic
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Mood swings

Long-term effects

  • Memory problems
  • Loss of control
  • Revolving life around use
  • Quitting activities that one used to enjoy

Effects of misuse

  • Higher tolerance
  • Using despite harmful effects
  • Using to avoid or relieve withdrawal symptoms
  • Rapid increases in the amount of medication needed
  • Frequent requests for refills
  • "Doctor shopping"
  • Use of more than one pharmacy
  • False or forged prescriptions

Gateway Rehab treats the underlying elements that lead to drug or alcohol addiction and continues to pioneer progressive and comprehensive treatment models.