National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week – Focus on ADDICTION

 

In honor of National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, InnerAct Alliance is partnering with the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) to share quick science-based facts about alcohol, drugs, and addiction to educate youth and adults about the short-term and long-term effects associated with use. Today’s focus is on ADDICTION.

Addiction is a disease, not a character flaw. Drug use can lead to addiction because the brain and body become so used to having the drug that it is hard to function without it. Before you know it, more drugs are needed and it becomes harder and harder to stop taking drugs. Overcoming a substance use order is not as simple as resisting temptation through willpower. Recovery may involve medication to help with cravings and withdrawal as well as therapy. Treatment can help people with substance disorders and the sooner a person receives treatment, the better their chances of recovery.

We are often asked the following questions about Addiction:

“How do I know if a teen or young adult has a substance use disorder?” Family members may be more likely to notice when their loved ones are experiencing changes in mood or behavior. Some of the telltale signs and behaviors associated with substance abuse and related problems are outlined in the graphic above. In addition to providing love and support, family members can connect those in need with treatment, resources, and services to begin and stay on their recovery journey.

“How can I help someone with a problem stop taking drugs?” It can be difficult to support a loved one through a struggle with substance use. The process can be complicated when the person refuses to accept help. It’s important to realize that while you may not have control over someone else’s substance use, support is available to cope with how that substance use may affect you.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) operates a National Helpline 1-800-662-HELP (4357) – a free and confidential treatment referral and information service that is available 24/7, 365 days-a-year (in English and Spanish). 

SAMHSA also offers online resources for families coping with mental and substance use disorders – visit: https://www.samhsa.gov/families to access resources and find treatment locations: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment

Remember, if someone is experiencing an overdose, mental health crisis, or other serious emergency, always call 9-1-1.