What starts as something recreational, something to take the edge off of a stressful day, a way to bond with friends or heighten enjoyment of a concert, can all too often lead off the cliff of addiction.
Addiction, as defined by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, is a chronic disorder characterized by compulsive substance seeking (usually drugs or alcohol) despite adverse consequences. In other words, even as a person’s life is falling apart as a result of substance use, he or she finds themselves unable to quit the substance.
For those who are caught in the devastating cycle of addiction disorders, hope can feel far away and unattainable. However, through the help of evidence-based treatment such as trauma-informed care, lasting recovery is possible.
Feeling trapped by an addiction disorder can be incredibly isolating, but a life of true freedom is within reach.
What Does an Addiction Disorder Look Like?
It is important to realize that not everyone suffering from substance use disorder, or addiction disorder, will exhibit the same predictable symptoms. In fact, many of the estimated 40 million people in the United States with addiction disorders are hiding in plain sight, able to mask their symptoms.
That said, there are certain symptoms that can often present in addicts. These include:
- Intense urges for the substance that block out other thoughts
- Using the substance daily or multiple times a day
- Needing more of the substance over time to achieve the same effect
- Spending money on the substance that you cannot afford
- Failing to meet family, work, school, or social obligations because of substance use
- Continuing to use the substance despite causing physical or psychological harm to yourself or others
- Breaking legal or personal boundaries to get the substance, such as stealing
- Driving or doing other risky activities while under the influence of the substance
- Trying and failing to stop using the substance
- Lack of energy or motivation, disinterest in work or school
- Weight fluctuations
- Neglected personal hygiene or appearance
- Decreased mental sharpness
- Psychotic episodes, hallucinations, violent behavior
In regards to the last bullet point above, the relationship between substance abuse and mental illness is complex. Studies have shown that drug use can, if not cause, at least worsen or trigger symptoms of mental illness. Addiction disorders and mental illness are surely intertwined, and many sufferers of an addiction disorder will need dual diagnosis treatment to truly heal.
Causes of Addiction Disorders
As with most issues surrounding mental health, the precise causes of addiction are complicated. There is rarely one specific reason why one person will develop a devastating addiction to a substance and another will not, but researchers have identified certain correlations in the lives of people struggling with addiction.
The interconnectedness of trauma and addiction cannot be over-emphasized. The psychological effects of experiencing a traumatic event can be severe and painful; many will turn to anything they can to relieve this pain, and too often that is drugs or alcohol. They quickly find themselves stuck in a pattern, needing more and more of the substance to function, until they are completely enslaved to it.
Other factors that may contribute to an addiction disorder include:
- Lack of parental supervision in childhood
- Aggressive behavior in childhood
- Availability of drugs at school
- Community poverty
- Parents or family members who abuse drugs or alcohol
- Poor social skills
- Struggling academically in school
None of these factors is necessarily a sentence to addiction. However, recognizing and remedying them early in life may avoid the potential for a person to develop an addiction disorder.
Paths to Healing
A person in active addiction can feel like there is no way out, like they will be trapped in their illness forever.
But, often through a holistic drug rehab or treatment program, healing is possible. Holistic, trauma-informed care empowers individuals to break free from the powerful grip of addiction. By addressing the underlying causes, nurturing mental and emotional well-being, and building new coping strategies, the way is paved for sustainable recovery and a future filled with hope and purpose.
There are many options to consider when beginning a journey to recovery. Some programs offer intensive outpatient treatment, allowing the client to live at home and attend treatment during the day. For a more supportive, immersive experience, people looking to break free from addiction may seek out residential treatment. This 24/7 care environment gives clients the most support as they begin the difficult journey.
Clients should also consider if they will need detox and withdrawal management. For many, this sometimes painful first step to sobriety is best taken with medical interventions or supervision.
There are also a variety of therapeutic modalities to consider, from experiential therapies like art and music therapy to trauma-informed talk therapies like EMDR or brainspotting.
By informing yourself and considering your own needs and preferences, you can choose the treatment option that will give you the strongest start to your healing journey.
Experience Lasting Freedom at Sana at Stowe in Vermont
If you or a loved one are ready to make that journey, consider starting at Sana at Stowe. In the beautiful natural surroundings of rural Vermont, you can find true healing from your addiction disorder. Our residential treatment program uses a variety of evidence-based therapies and interventions in a luxury setting, giving you the best possible beginning to a life free from addiction.
Our programs are also accessible to all. Sana at Stowe offers medically-supervised detox and accepts insurance through in-network providers.
So do not hesitate to reach out to Sana at Stowe today. Freedom from addiction disorder is possible. Call today at (802) 532-5277 to start your journey to recovery. You do not have to go through this alone. One of our trained professionals is ready to speak to you, now.
