Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease, not a moral failing. For many, the cycle of addiction starts when they try to cope with overwhelming thoughts or emotions by self-medicating with drugs or alcohol. They may not even realize they are running from or pushing aside discomfort, but ultimately, the substance becomes their go-to solution. This can quickly spiral into a full-blown addiction as the body and brain become dependent on the substance to function.
The addiction cycle is difficult to break, especially alone. Thankfully, help is available. The clinician-run addiction treatment programs at Red Oak Recovery® in North Carolina offer a proven, compassionate approach to treating addiction. Our team understands how overwhelming and all-consuming addiction can be, and we are here to guide you or your loved one toward a life of recovery. Call 828.382.9699 to get started.
The Cycle of Addiction Has Three Distinct Phases
As substance abuse progresses, the brain and body rely on drugs or alcohol to release dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical found naturally in the body that helps people experience happiness and pleasure. When drugs or alcohol become the primary source of dopamine, the body and brain stop producing as much naturally. This leads to a cycle of addiction that is difficult to break without professional help.
- Intoxication – After someone uses drugs or alcohol, they become intoxicated with its euphoric side effects, making it easy to ignore the negative feelings and consequences they cause. Stimulants like cocaine increase energy and alertness. Depressants like alcohol or opioids cause feelings of relaxation and calm.
- Withdrawal – The effects of drugs and alcohol wear off, often more quickly than someone addicted to them would like. During withdrawal, negative effects are harder to ignore and also worsen. Anxiety, depression, tremors, nausea, sweating, and other side effects are all common.
- Cravings – While (and after) withdrawal symptoms preoccupy the body and brain, cravings set in. This causes the individual to recognize that the negative withdrawal effects may go away by using the drug again. Beyond that, they’ll likely feel better than they did before, experiencing the euphoria they did during their initial intoxication.
The cycle is unforgiving and can cause permanent changes in the brain’s function. As tolerance increases, a person may need more of the substance to achieve the same level of intoxication. This can lead to dangerous and potentially deadly overdoses. Getting help for substance abuse and addiction can help break the cycle and prevent long-term damage to the body and brain.
Breaking the Cycle of Addiction
Addiction is not a lifelong sentence. While there is no cure, there is hope and recovery. You or your loved one is not alone in this struggle, and there is no shame in seeking help.
Awareness
Recognizing the presence of addiction and understanding its triggers is the first step toward recovery. Self-awareness allows individuals to identify patterns of behavior and the underlying causes of their addiction.
Intervention
Effective intervention strategies are essential in disrupting the addiction cycle. These can include:
- Withdrawal management and medication-assisted treatment (MAT) – Supervised medical treatment to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Professional counseling – Therapy sessions with trained clinicians who specialize in addiction and mental health
- Family support – Engaging family members in the recovery process to provide a strong support system
- Community resources – Utilizing local support groups and recovery communities
Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness. Your commitment to a healthier, sober life is a sign of strength and bravery.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Since addiction is so intertwined with mental health, addressing any underlying conditions can help promote successful recovery. Ignoring mental health can easily lead to relapse, as the individual continues to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol to cope. Dual diagnosis treatment at Red Oak Recovery® addresses both addiction and underlying mental health issues for a comprehensive approach to recovery.
Continued Care
Recovery is a lifelong journey, but you don’t have to do it alone. Alumni programs and aftercare support make resources for ongoing therapy, support groups, and relapse prevention readily available.
Find Help by Calling Red Oak Recovery®
Addiction doesn’t have to control your life or the life of someone you love. At Red Oak, our team of trained professionals offers personalized care and support for individuals struggling with addiction. Our holistic approach includes evidence-based therapies, wilderness therapy, and a focus on mind, body, and spirit wellness. Don’t let the cycle of addiction continue any longer; call 828.382.9699 or contact us online now to start the journey forward.
