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Define Drug Addiction

A drug addiction is the compulsive need to constantly use a drug. This is caused by the body's physical addiction to the effects of the drug. According to HelpGuide.org, most drugs make people feel better by stimulating the part of the brain responsible for pleasure. Over time, a drug addiction can cause the person to become so addicted they go to extreme lengths in order to use the drug, often at the expense of becoming homeless and resorting to criminal activity to make money to use more drugs.

  1. Cause

    • According to Medline Plus, peer pressure, having emotional problems, anxiety, depression, stress from environmental factors and a person's genes can cause a drug addiction. The drug itself can cause the brain to physically need it in order to reach a state of normality.

    Risk Factors

    • People with depression, attention-deficit disorder (ADD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychological problems are at a higher risk for developing a drug dependence. A family history of drug dependence also increases the risk.

    Types

    • Substances commonly abused with drug addictions include opiates, narcotics, central nervous system stimulants, central nervous system depressants and hallucinogens. Both illegal and prescription drugs are commonly abused.

    Symptoms

    • According to HelpGuide.org, symptoms of drug addiction include sudden weight changes, cycles of increased energy and insomnia, cycles of excessive sleep, slow movement, speech or reaction ability, confusion, disorientation and significant dental problems.

    Effects

    • The effects of drug addiction include apathy, depression, paranoia, hallucinations, delusional thoughts, unusual calmness, acting unresponsive, increased anger or agitation, and having too much energy. Drug abusers also are more prone to violence.

    Complications

    • Lung disease, cardiovascular problems, brain damage, arthritis or joint pain, hepatitis, and HIV are complications that arise from continued drug addiction. Drug abusers also have trouble keeping a job and are at a higher risk for breaking the law.

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