It’s normal to have questions about how addiction works and what you need to do if you think you may be struggling with addiction. The important part is that you’re asking questions and willing to learn about addiction to help either yourself or a struggling loved one. Here at Wellness Retreat Recovery Center, we know the importance of spreading information about addiction. This way, we work to remove the harmful stigma of addiction so that people may feel more comfortable and confident about getting the help they need. So, we’ve come up with a list of some of the most commonly asked questions about addiction and their responses.

Q: How do I know that I’m Addicted to a Substance?

A: Unfortunately, if you are asking this question, it may be due to the fact that you already know you’re struggling with substance abuse. Whether or not you choose to do anything about it is up to you. However, if you’re looking for solid evidence, there are a few things you can look out for. The most defining characteristic of physical dependence is experiencing withdrawal when a substance isn’t used. So, if you feel nauseous, sweaty, crampy, or any one of the withdrawal symptoms associated with your drug of choice when you aren’t using, you may have already developed dependence. Additionally, some other signs of addiction can include not being able to quit using even when trying, broken relationships, financial struggles, and even legal issues.

Q: Why do People get Addicted to Drugs?

A: There are a number of reasons people may start using drugs or alcohol. In many cases, it’s to self-medicate pain associated with trauma, depression, or other mental health disorders. In fact, it’s estimated that about 40% of individuals who get help for addiction have concurring mental health disorders. So, it’s known that these individuals have a higher risk of developing an addiction. However, anyone can become addicted to drugs or alcohol, regardless of preexisting conditions. There is no one single determining factor that leads to addiction 100% of the time. But, we do know that certain risk factors may increase a person’s chance at addiction like environmental exposure, abuse during childhood, and genetics.

Q: What are Opioids?

A: With the opioid epidemic touching every corner of the nation, many parents and individuals may have questions. One of the most common questions regarding this epidemic is the definition of an opioid. Basically, “opioid” is the general term for any substance either synthetically or naturally produced to mirror the chemical structure and effects of opium. Opium is derived from the plant that grows poppies and poppy seeds. For over a thousand years, opium has been used and sold for its medicinal purposes. But, this natural substance is highly addictive and used to also create morphine and heroin. All three of these naturally derived substances are known as opiates. But, while opiates are opioids, not all opioids are opiates. For example, synthetically produced prescription narcotics like Percocet are regarded as opioids. However, since they aren’t taken from opium itself, they aren’t considered opiates.

Q: Do I Have to get Treatment for Addiction?

A: Over half the individuals who get help for addiction through treatment end up relapsing within the first year. So, imagine the number of people who relapse without using any type of treatment. Not only is treatment effective in helping people gain sobriety almost half the time, but it’s also a safe environment to detox and receive support. On the other hand, those who attempt to detox alone may be putting themselves at risk for withdrawal-related death, medical complications, and overdose fatalities. The fact of the matter is that if you are serious about changing your life and getting sober, you’ll choose to get help through treatment.

Have Addiction Questions? Need Help with an Addiction? We’re Here to Help

If you or a loved one needs help with facing addiction, Wellness Retreat Recovery Center is here for you and your family. We offer an individualized, comprehensive approach to treatment that addresses every patient’s personal needs. This way, you can be sure that you’re getting the specific treatment you need for the best possible chance at recovery.

Give us a call today at 888-966-9055 to speak confidentially with us about how to get started on your new journey of healing.