Addiction is complex. What happens in the brain and body can be a challenge to understand because of the numerous changes that may occur. Chemical dependency is one of them. A person who may be using drugs or alcohol on a compulsive basis may be unable to stop using because of dependency. What is it? Why does it happen? With substance abuse treatment, like the programs offered at Georgia Addiction Treatment Center, it may be possible to overcome dependency. Contact us today at [Direct] to learn more.

Understanding Chemical Dependency

The term chemical dependency describes a person who is using drugs or alcohol even though they know that if they continue to do so, it will cause damage. That may be damage to their physical and mental health. It may include damage to relationships, finances, work abilities, and futures as a whole. Yet, they continue to do so.

People who have dependency do not want to destroy their futures. Most often, these people want to stop using drugs and alcohol. However, they cannot simply stop, no matter how much willpower they have. Quitting the drug is nearly impossible because of the changes that have happened in the brain.

When chemical dependency forms, a person’s body requires the drug to be present to function normally. When it is not, the body and brain go into overdrive, trying to learn to function without it while also creating drug-seeking behavior through cravings. This phase is called withdrawal.

Why Does Dependency Happen?

When a person takes drugs or uses alcohol, those substances interfere with how the brain’s neurons send and receive messages through neurotransmitters. Some substances can activate the neurons because the chemical structure is much like the natural neurotransmitter. Drugs like this include heroin and marijuana. Other drugs, such as amphetamine and cocaine, cause the brain’s neurons to release natural neurotransmitters.

What Happens if a Person Tries to Stop?

These substances can create significant changes in the way the brain functions. As a result, the brain becomes dependent on the drugs, requiring its presence to operate correctly. When that does not happen, the body starts to create withdrawal symptoms, and cravings begin. Some examples of this include:

  • Muscle and bone pain
  • Agitation
  • Extreme anxiety or paranoia
  • Insomnia or extreme fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Physical illness symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea

Some people also exhibit intense psychosis symptoms. They may even be at risk for physical symptoms such as a racing heart, seizures, and memory loss. These symptoms are severe, and they continue for days to two weeks until the body flushes all of the toxins out of the system.

What Can You Do About Substances Dependency?

If you face the reality of alcohol addiction or drug addiction, where you want to stop but cannot, know you are not alone. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t receive treatment. Medications and therapies are available to help a person with these symptoms get some relief. There’s no way to speed up the actual detox process, but you do not have to suffer through the pain.

Call Georgia Addiction Treatment Center Today

If you’re facing these addiction symptoms, reach out for help immediately. You don’t want to be without treatment to help you overcome addiction. Our team can offer support through a number of treatment programs:

Whether they’re battling a chemical dependency or not, a person using drugs and alcohol on a compulsive basis needs help. Reach out to Georgia Addiction Treatment Center. We offer a comprehensive program to help you with experienced, compassionate counselors and innovative treatment options. Call us at [Direct] or connect with us online to get the help you need.

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