Understanding how to prevent drug misuse is essential to addressing its root causes. It may have begun with back discomfort, prompting your physician to prescribe painkillers to enhance your comfort. You were experiencing difficulties with sleep, and subsequently, your partner provided you with some medicines to alleviate your anxiety and facilitate rest. Although it may not have been significant at first, you quickly began to consume more than necessary. Occasional use quickly evolved into a routine leading to frequent substance use that has now culminated in severe drug addiction. Impulsive decisions could lead to a lifetime of problems. Avoidance is the most effective approach to drug treatment. To understand how drug addiction begins, the experts at Mallard Lake Detox Center in Houston, TX, share their insights in this blog. Explore it to learn more.
Understanding How Drug Addiction Begins
An individual with an addiction is unable to quit the use of alcohol or drugs, even when experiencing adverse effects. Addiction alters the brain’s perception of pleasure and impairs essential activities such as learning and motivation. This calls for an increased quantity of substance to get the same amount of pleasure.
Addiction begins in the nucleus accumbens area of the brain. This area of the brain is referred to as the pleasure center. Engaging in pleasurable activities, such as drug use, triggers the release of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, and its release functions as a reward, motivating the individual to repeat the activity.
Alcohol and drugs can overload the brain’s reward system, causing excessive dopamine release and triggering responses that may lead to addiction. Repeated use of drugs or alcohol leads to the development of tolerance. This indicates that individuals need more quantities of drugs or alcohol to have the same effects. Over time, the body becomes reliant on the drug and experiences withdrawal symptoms in its absence; this is known as dependency.
Signs of Drug Use
Here are some of the signs of drug use:
Physical Changes
- Bloodshot eyes
- Weight fluctuations
- Poor hygiene
Behavioral changes
- Secretive behavior
- Risk-taking actions
- Social isolation
Mental and emotional changes
- Mood swings
- Anxiety or paranoia
- Depression or lack of motivation
Financial issues
- Unexplained borrowing or selling items
- Sudden financial difficulties
Health problems
- Frequent headaches
- Respiratory issues
- Nausea or dizziness
If you notice these signs, it is crucial to seek help from a rehab center. Contact Mallard Lake Detox Center in Houston, TX, to regain control over drug addiction.
Overcome Drug Addiction with Experts at Mallard Lake Detox Center in Houston, TX
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, you can feel overpowered and out of control. However, there is hope; that addictions can be treated. Through qualified medical treatment and dedication, millions have overcome drug use disorders and addictive behaviors to lead fulfilling, productive lives. Consult your physician on a treatment plan that is suitable for you. Contact Mallard Lake Detox Center in Houston, TX, to overcome drug addiction. Don’t be discouraged by any obstacles along your journey. Overcoming addiction is possible, and you are not alone.