Many people do not understand why or how individuals become addicted to drugs and alcohol.  Society labels those who are addicted as morally weak and should just "stop" taking drugs or just "stop" drinking.   People misunderstand the complexity of the effects of alcohol and drugs on the brain and to stop using is just not a matter of will power. Addiction is a chronic condition causing continual drug use and drug use seeking behaviors despite the harmful consequences caused to the user and the users family.

Different drugs have different effects, some such as cocaine or methamphetamine, may produce an intense "rush" and initial feeling of boundless energy.   Others, such as heroin, benxodiazepines or the prescription oxycontin, may produce excessive feelings of relaxation and calm.  What most drugs have in common, though, is over stimulation of the pleasure center of the brain.  With time, the brain's chemistry is actually altered to the point where not having the drug becomes extremely uncomfortable and even painful.  This compelling urge to use, addiction, becomes more and more powerful, disrupting work, relationships, and health.

Most abused drugs are not only mentally addictive but physically addictive as well. Tolerance is built up to the drug.  More and more of the drug is needed to achieve the desired effect.  As the body physically adjusts to the drug, trying to cut down or stop is unpleasant or even painful.  These withdrawal symptoms, depending on the drug, can include shakes, chills, severe aches and pains, difficulty sleeping, agitation, depression, and even hallucinations or psychosis.  Avoiding withdrawal adds to the urgency of keeping  up drug abuse and increases drug dependence.

For more information on a particular drug and information on alcohol, click on the specific link.