Addiction is a chronic, progressive disease that affects the brain and changes how someone behaves. Addiction can cause intense urges to take drugs or alcohol, despite negative consequences. These intense drug cravings lead to compulsive behaviors; even when an addict no longer enjoys taking a substance or using it, there are very little effects anymore. The body will adjust itself to accommodate certain chemicals in the blood system, so stopping suddenly will cause withdrawal symptoms, including nausea, sweating, muscle aches & cramps, insomnia & irritability, etc.
Health Risks Associated With Addiction
Addiction can have a profound and deadly effect on an addict’s physical health. some of the health risks it poses to addicts are:
Liver damage
The liver is one of the important organs in the body, which helps carry out many important functions, including removing toxic substances from your blood and turning it into urine. Alcohol abuse causes inflammation called hepatitis, reduces liver function by destroying cells and causes shrinkage that could lead to cirrhosis.
Heart Disease
Heart disease or Cardiovascular disease is a chronic disorder that affects your heart. It is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Addiction increases the risk of developing heart disease by causing high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, and heart attacks.
Respiratory Disease
Addiction can also lead to respiratory problems such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and emphysema. Addicts are at high risk for these diseases because smoking cigarettes, using crack cocaine, and drinking alcohol all irritate the respiratory tract.
Infectious Diseases
People addicted to drugs are also at high risk of developing infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and hepatitis. This is because addicts often share needles and other drug paraphernalia, which increases their chances of exposure to these diseases.
Mental Health Disorders
Drugs or alcohol addicts are also at high risk for developing mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. This is because addiction can cause changes in the brain that lead to these disorders.
Treatment For Addicts
There are many different treatments available for addicts, but the most common type is residential rehab. Residential rehabs provide intensive treatment for a set amount of time, usually 30-90 days. Treatment includes therapy, counseling, and education on living without drugs or alcohol. While many people believe that addicts should not be given an opportunity to change, the truth is that addiction can be treated effectively, and recovery is possible. Drug rehabs provide addicts with the support they need to change their lives for the better. Treatment for addicts is anything but a waste of time or money because it saves lives each day.
Is Treatment For Addicts Just A Waste Of Time and Money?
No, treatment for addicts is not a waste of time and money. It saves lives each day. Some of the benefits of treatment for addicts include:
It reduces the risk of overdose and death
Taking addicts to rehab for treatment is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of overdose and death. When an addict has access to quality treatment, they are much less likely to relapse because it reminds them why they quit in the first place. Having a stay at rehab that exposes addicts to sober living is one of the best ways for them to avoid relapsing into drug abuse or alcoholism after they leave treatment. After rehab, addicts learn how to meet their goals and support themselves without depending on drugs and alcohol.
It saves money
Treatment for addicts also helps to save money. Addicts spend a lot of money on drugs and alcohol, but when they are in treatment, they no longer have to spend that money. In fact, many insurance companies will cover the cost of addiction treatment.
It improves physical health
When addicts enter into treatment, they often experience improved physical health. This is because treatment helps to address the health risks associated with addiction. Addicts who receive treatment are less likely to develop heart disease, respiratory problems, or infectious diseases.
It provides support
Addicts often feel alone and helpless when they are struggling with addiction. The treatment provides them with a support system of friends and peers who understand what they are going through. This support system can be incredibly helpful in maintaining sobriety after treatment.
It improves mental health
Mental instability is one of the biggest risk factors for addiction. Many addicts are dealing with mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia. Treatment can help improve these conditions because addicts learn how to handle their emotions in a healthy way.
It leads to recovery
While not every addict will go through treatment and recover, many find sobriety by attending addiction rehab. It is important to remember that addiction is a chronic disease that can be managed with treatment and support from peers.
From the above benefits, it’s evident that treatment for addicts is not a waste of time or money. It can save lives, improve physical and mental health, and lead to recovery. If you are struggling with addiction, please seek help from a qualified rehab center. For those from South West Florida and its surroundings, reach us at 844-639-8371 for more information about our treatment package for addicts.