Drug addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people around the world. This chronic and recurring disease is characterized by the compulsive seeking and consumption of psychoactive substances despite the negative consequences that this entails. Identifying the symptoms of drug addiction is essential to be able to intervene in time and provide the necessary support to those who suffer from this condition.
What is drug addiction?
Drug addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is a chronic brain disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite its adverse consequences. . This condition affects both the functioning of the brain and the behavior of the person, and can have serious implications for the physical, mental, emotional and social health of those who suffer from it.
Symptoms of drug addiction
The symptoms of drug addiction can vary depending on the type of substance consumed, the frequency and duration of consumption, as well as the individual characteristics of each person. However, there are a number of common signs that may indicate the presence of a substance use disorder:
1. Changes in behavior
One of the most obvious signs of drug addiction are changes in a person's behavior. This can manifest itself in loss of interest in activities that you previously enjoyed, neglect of personal hygiene, social isolation, irritability, aggressiveness, sudden mood changes, among others. The addicted person may show evasive or defensive behavior when questioned about their drug use.
2. Tolerance and withdrawal
Drug tolerance is another characteristic symptom of addiction. This means that the person needs to consume larger amounts of the substance to achieve the same effects that were initially experienced with lower doses. On the other hand, withdrawal refers to the presence of unpleasant physical and psychological symptoms when drug consumption is reduced or stopped. These symptoms may include anxiety, agitation, sweating, tremors, insomnia, nausea, among others.
3. Loss of control
Loss of control over drug use is another key symptom of addiction. The addicted person experiences difficulty stopping or controlling their substance use, even when they are aware of the negative consequences that this entails. You may spend long periods of time using drugs, unable to moderate your use or stop despite your efforts to do so.
4. Denial and rationalization
People with drug addiction often deny the seriousness of their problem and seek justifications for their behavior. They may minimize the negative consequences of their substance use, blame others for their problems, or argue that they are able to control their use when in reality they are not. This denial and rationalization are defense mechanisms that allow them to maintain their addiction unconsciously.
5. Prioritizing drug use
Drug addiction leads the person to put other areas of their life on the back burner, such as work, studies, personal relationships or health. Drug use becomes the absolute priority, above any other responsibility or commitment. This focus on the substance can lead the person to neglect their well-being and put their physical and emotional integrity at risk.
Conclusion
In summary, drug addiction is a disease complex that affects multiple aspects of the lives of those who suffer from it. Identifying the symptoms of drug addiction is the first step to being able to intervene effectively and provide the necessary treatment to people suffering from this disorder. It is important to remember that drug addiction is a treatable disease and that with the right support, it is possible to recover and lead a healthy, substance-free life.