The American Society of Addiction Medicine describes addiction as “a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences. People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences.” Substance use disorder is a medical condition that affects how the brain processes reward and decision-making. Continued use of drugs or alcohol can change brain chemistry and lead to dependence. Because of this, recovery is often difficult to achieve alone, and professional treatment can play a critical role.

Substance use disorder impacts the brain’s reward system, which controls motivation and pleasure. Drugs and alcohol affect chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin — the same chemicals released during normal activities like eating or spending time with others.

Because these substances imitate the brain’s natural reward response, the brain begins to associate the substance with pleasure and seeks it repeatedly.

Substance use disorder is rarely caused by one factor alone. It typically develops through a combination of genetics, environment, and life experiences.

Substance use disorder is a chronic disease, and recovery takes time. Most people benefit from ongoing or repeated support to regain control of their lives.

Treatment focuses on helping individuals:

  • Reduce or stop substance use safely
  • Build and maintain healthy habits that support recovery
  • Reconnect with family, work, and their community in meaningful ways

There are many approaches that have been effective in supporting recovery from substance use disorders, including:

  • Behavioral counseling to develop coping strategies and healthy habits
  • Medications that can help manage withdrawal symptoms and support recovery
  • Tools, medical devices, and digital applications to assist with skill-building and wellness
  • Assessment and treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety
  • Ongoing support and long-term follow-up to reduce the risk of relapse

Source: National Institute on Drug Abuse. To learn more, visit https://www.drugabuse.gov.