The Addict

An addict is a person who has a compulsion to seek and use drugs, despite negative consequences.  An addict can develop a tolerance to the drug, using a higher and higher quantity of the drug to achieve the same high as when the drug use first began.

When addicts and addiction were first being studied, the addict was looked upon very negatively.  It was believed addicts had "allowed" themselves to become dependent on drugs or alcohol. Those sentiments can still be seen in today's societal consciousness when it comes to addicts.  The medical profession, however, knows that there are biological, behavioral, and social components to an addiction.

At Lakeview Health Systems, we understand the complex nature of drug and alcohol addiction.  We are here to help you, as an addict, recover from the hold drugs or alcohol has over your life.  Call us 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-657-4357.

Becoming a Drug Addict or Alcohol Addict

Some addicts began taking drugs to feel better, to feel good, or because others around them are abusing drugs.  Some people are simply at a higher risk to become a drug addict.  Adolescents, for example, with poor family and peer situations are often more likely to try drugs. Using drugs while their brains are still developing affects decision-making skills.

When an addict first begins to use drugs or alcohol, the decision to use that substance is voluntary.  Over time, the drug or alcohol addict's ability to exude self-control is severely impaired.  Brain imaging studies from addicts show physical changes in areas of the brain that are critical to judgment, decision making, learning and memory, and behavior control. Science also reveals that drug use changes cognitive and behavioral functions in the brain, which is why addicts feel out of control, are unable to make decisions, and continue to seek drugs.  In order for an addict to recover from this debilitating brain disease, he or she must seek professional help.

Relearning behaviors is an essential part of recovery for an addict.  At Lakeview Health Systems, our drug and alcohol addiction treatment programs help addicts gain the necessary skills to change their negative behaviors caused by drugs and alcohol to experience addiction recovery.  For more information on how we can help, call 1-800-657-4357.  All calls are toll-free and completely confidential.