Neuroscientist, doctors and other experts all over the world agree that substance abuse is a disease. The American Society of Addiction Medicine takes it a step further and classifies it as a chronic brain disorder. So, what exactly is substance use disorder?
Substance use disorder, also known as addiction, is recognized as a medical brain disorder. It refers to the use of illegal substances such as heroin, cocaine, marijuana etc. and the abuse of legal substances such as alcohol, prescription medication, nicotine, etc.
Addiction can begin in various ways. Whether it’s developed after a legal painkiller prescription, a coping mechanism for trauma, or recreational use, the fact remains that it can happen in a blink of an eye, and it can happen to any of us.
Research has shown how addiction changes the areas of the brain in charge of decision making, learning and memory, behaviors, and judgement. Those changes can lead to a good student dropping out of school, a husband draining their families savings account, or a teenage overdose. Once substance abuse changes the brain, willpower changes too. When trying to quit using substances the brain protects you from the pain and intensity of withdrawal symptoms. Addiction fuels your brain’s response to do whatever it takes to stop the cravings and discomfort. This makes it very difficult to quit even if a person wants to and leaves them feeling trapped.
No matter the onset of addiction, those living with it are suffering. Due to the stigma of addiction most people don’t understand that overcoming this disease takes more than good intentions and a strong willpower. It takes a village of support and the right treatment.
With so many communities affected by addiction, it shouldn’t be taboo to talk about. Let’s work on ending the stigma today and talk about it. Contact our professional team of medical experts here at Bayside Behavioral Health at 317-520-8300 or info@baysidebh.com to get the conversation started and see your options for treatment!
