| Arthritis & Allergy |
|
1200 West Granada Blvd., # 6
Ormond Beach, FL 32174
386.676.0307
Why Some Become Addicted and Others Do Not
As I mentioned in my previous article, addiction occurs when you become powerless over a physical and psychological need (compulsive use, craving, or needing it to feel good) for a habit-forming substance, in this case, narcotics.
Why me?
Often, I am posed the question “Why do some people become addicted to narcotics and others do not?” Unfortunately, there is no simple answer. Predisposing factors such as genetics or family history of alcohol or drug abuse, history of trauma such as childhood physical or sexual abuse, being a risk taker, or having easy access to opiods can each contribute to your relative risk for particular addictive behaviors.
How does addiction progress?
The first stage of addiction, known as either the “honeymoon”, “fooling around”, or “courting” stage, occurs when the drug is used more often and the user becomes more familiar with the ups and downs and mood changes associated with increased use.
The next stage is known as “being hooked”, “head over heels”, or “losing control” stage. Like finding love in the first few weeks of spring, nothing in the world can stop your happiness. All your thoughts are about the one you love, and when will you be together again. You are so head over heels that you are blind and you can only see the good in your loved one. You lie to be together, you do things you would normally not do, you’ve spent all your money, you’ve neglected your job, your family and your friends, and nothing else matters. You’ve become a slave to your addictive mind that urges you to seek out the means for this intense high.
Unfortunately, the next stage is always bad. You’ve alienated your friends, you’ve lost people’s trust, and you’ve lost yourself amidst this overwhelming need. You pay a big price for your addiction, both physically (severe physical dependence and withdrawal) and psychologically (depression and anxiety). You might lose your job, marriage, and even turn to breaking the law. You’ve entered the third stage of addiction: “rock bottom.”
Hopefully, before you’re at a point of no return, your physician, family and friends can ensure you get the help you need to allow you to enter the “recovering” stage. It’s the hardest stage to conquer, and the road is long, but it can be done.
Even though narcotic medications are important in managing moderate to severe pain, the risk of addiction cannot be ignored. Under the watchful eyes of your physician, family, and friends, addiction can hopefully be prevented or be treated earlier and properly.
If you are addicted, do not feel ashamed, be honest with your family, friends, and physician, and ask for help.
By Dr. Yong H. Tsai
Published in The Daytona Beach News-Journal
This and all articles displayed on our website:
www.arthritis-allergy.com