Substance use disorder is known to be a mental health condition called substance use disorder. This cannot be stopped or by having self control – it is a complex condition that requires dedicated treatment and therapy. Whether an individual is addicted to alcohol, opioids, fentanyl, heroin, benzodiazepines, prescription drugs, or another substance – treatment is necessary to heal from addiction. Addiction has an impact on the brain and how an individual thinks, acts, and perceives the world around them.
How Addiction Impacts Joy
Addiction makes an individual reliant on drugs or alcohol to feel positive emotions like joy, happiness, or euphoria. When a person partakes in drugs or alcohol too much and too often, their brain stops producing serotonin and dopamine on its own. Meaning without substances an individual will feel down, depressed, and melancholy. This tricks the brain into thinking drugs and alcohol are needed for happiness.
The Effects on Memory and Cognitive Thinking
The brain’s ability to feel joy is not the only section affected by addiction. When drugs and alcohol are abused – especially at a younger age – one’s ability to focus, memorize, and learn new things is impacted. This can affect people experiencing addiction when it comes to school, work, and daily life.
Addiction is NOT a Choice
It’s very important to note that substance use disorder is not a choice. One does not wake up and choose to be addicted. It is a mental health condition that can be present due to multiple factors. Addiction can be genetic, but it can also be the result of the environment an individual is in. If someone grows up with substance abuse around them, they are more likely to become addicted.
If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of addiction to drugs or alcohol, it’s crucial that you approach them with care and compassion. At Rise Above Treatment center, our admissions team is available around the clock to answer any questions or concerns you may have about getting help for yourself or a loved one.
We offer a comprehensive range of addiction treatment so that everyone has a chance to recover. Most treatment begins with detox, and transitions into residential rehab. From there, clients graduate to intensive outpatient treatment or partial hospitalization programs. Take the first step towards a more stable, sober future.
About Rise Above Treatment
Rise Above Treatment is a Murrieta, California based addiction treatment center that is committed to helping people recover from drug, alcohol, and other mental health concerns that are holding them back. We offer a range of services, including medical detox, residential rehab, addiction PHP, sober living options, and intensive outpatient programs. If you or a loved one is experiencing addiction, visit us at riseabovetreatment.com or give us a call at (855) 948-6325 and begin your journey to recovery.
