Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is a complex condition, which is characterized by compulsive drug use. A drug abuser uses drugs even though it causes harm to themselves and others. People who are addicted to drugs feel an overwhelming need for drugs even in the face of negative consequences. If a person is neglecting their responsibilities, taking dangerous risks, getting into legal trouble and causing problems in their relationships then a drug abuse problem could be the cause.

The common signs and symptoms of drug addiction are building up a tolerance to a particular drug, taking drugs to avoid withdrawal symptoms and the inability to stop the use of drugs. While each drug of abuse produces different effects, all abused substances share one thing in common, the alteration in the brain chemistry, which can cause long –lasting changes to brain functions. These “assaults” to the brain interfere with the user’s ability to think clearly, exercise good judgment, control their behavior, and feel normal without drugs. These changes also are responsible for the drug cravings and compulsion to use drugs that makes addiction so powerful.

The treatment of drug abuse must address every aspect of the addiction including the medical needs of the abuser. Caron Texas conducts an extensive evaluation and individual assessment to address both the primary chemical dependency and possible co-occurring conditions for the substance abuse such as trauma, depression, bipolar and other mental health issues. We work with each person to identify his or her individual needs for detoxification, and offer individual and group counseling, family therapy and education about the disease of addiction, and the importance of a healthy diet and nutrition and exercise during one’s recovery.