It is important for people with addictions and their family members to have a firm grasp on the addiction definition. The more that they understand about addiction, the better that they can prevent it from happening. There are a number of questions that come to mind about addiction when first addressing it. But it is important to keep in mind the definition.
The Addiction Definition
When people look up the addiction definition, there is a short and long version. The short version lists addiction as a chronic disease of the motivation and reward circuits in the brain. It causes dysfunction in these circuits, which leads to mental, spiritual, social and biological problems. In short, it makes people constantly pursue a substance or behavior that triggers the reward system in the brain.
The Long Definition of Addiction
While the short addiction definition covers the major points, it does not dive deep enough. The long definition explains that, like other chronic diseases, addiction follows periods of relapse and remission. It also explains how addiction impacts people’s behaviors and interpersonal relationships. Overall, it causes emotional distress as users lose control over their ability to stop using drugs. The long addiction definition also covers the factors that cause addiction. Not everyone who tries drugs or alcohol develops an addiction. Experts believe that other factors are in play, such as genetics. Studies show that people with a history of addiction in their families are more likely to develop an addiction themselves. Scientists believe that there are certain addiction genes. Even with these genes, people do not develop an addiction without first engaging in an activity or taking a substance. For example, people can’t develop alcohol addiction without making the decision to drink first. As a result, they have the ability to avoid this genetic factor. Furthermore, people learn that environmental factors play a role in developing an addiction as well. Growing up in areas where substance abuse is common increases people’s risk. Their groups of friends and jobs also play a role in the development of this disease. Lastly, the addiction definition covers this disease and other mental disorders. People who have a history of mental disorders are more likely to develop an addiction. Once the brain develops one disorder, it is easy for it to develop another. Once other disorders begin to develop, that is when dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorder treatment is necessary.
Contact Palmetto Addiction Recovery Center Today
At Palmetto Recovery Center, our goal is to help you overcome addiction. In fact, we offer some of the best rehab center accommodations in the city. One reason for this is because we offer both detox and rehab in the same location. Some other services that we provide include:
- Professionals Treatment Program
- Medical Detox Program
- Family Therapy Program
- Outpatient Drug Rehab Program
Learn more about the addiction definition and what it takes to stop this destructive cycle. Participate in our detox and rehab programs that work best for you. Call us today at (866) 848-3001 for more information.
