Addiction is a disease to be treated, not stigmatised
Addiction is not a choice. It's not something to be ashamed of, it's a disease that should be treated as such. For far too long, society has viewed addiction as a character flaw and a moral failing rather than the brain disease associated with it. In fact, it is.
How is addiction treated by society?
Addicts are blamed for their condition when they actually have little control over their symptoms. The truth is that addiction is a disease that deserves compassion and treatment, not stigma and punishment.
What really happens when you suffer from addiction?
Addiction Hijacks the Brain. Repeated use of drugs alters the chemistry and structure of the brain. These changes alter normal functioning and impair a person's ability to self-regulate.
Dopamine, a chemical that helps regulate movement and pleasure, is over-elevated with medication and disrupts the brain's natural reward system. This interferes with normal communication between brain cells and distorts the way the brain perceives and processes information. These long-lasting effects impede an addict's ability to quit, even in the face of extreme negative consequences.
Genetic and environmental factors
Some people are biologically predisposed to addiction due to genetic factors. Negative childhood experiences, such as childhood trauma and substance abuse, also significantly increase a person's vulnerability. Environmental factors such as community and social norms influence the likelihood that someone will use drugs or become addicted. All these factors limit free will and, sadly, many addicts have few options.
Addiction needs help, not hate.
Treating addiction as an addict's moral defect only increases shame and isolation and keeps people away from help and support. Addicts affected by the disease require treatment that addresses the biological, psychological, and social aspects of the disorder. Rehabilitation programs, 12-step groups, therapies, and medications can provide addicts with new skills and support to help them overcome their addictions and lead healthy lives during recovery. People suffering from addiction should be given compassion, acceptance and informed advice about treatment options instead of judgment.
Frequently asked questions
- What causes addiction?
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Addiction develops due to a combination of factors including genetics, environment and exposure to drugs at an early age. Repeated drug use changes the brain's chemistry and structure causing the disease of addiction.
- Is addiction a choice?
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No, addiction is not a choice. The brain changes that occur with addiction alter a person's self-control and decision making abilities. Biological and environmental factors also diminish free will and contribute to addiction development.
- How can addicts get help?
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Addicts can find help through rehabilitation programmes, 12-step groups, therapy and medication support. These options address the biological, psychological and social aspects of addiction to give addicts new skills and coping mechanisms to achieve long-term recovery.
- How can I support someone with addiction?
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The most helpful thing you can do is offer love, acceptance and compassion. Understand that addiction is an illness, not a moral failing. Encourage the addict to seek professional treatment. Avoid judgement and criticism which can trigger relapse. Instead, focus on helping them access the support and resources they need for long-term rehabilitation and recovery. Contact us now to discover more.
