Addiction

What is an addiction?

Addictions are serious problems that change normal behaviors and interfere with other aspects of your life.  Addiction to drugs or alcohol are psychiatric disorders. Addiction tends to be associated with alcohol and substance abuse, but there are many other types of addiction. 

What causes addiction?

There are numerous addictive substances, including tobacco, alcohol, prescription opioids, and illegal narcotics. These substances can cause changes in brain chemistry that make it very difficult to stop using them.  Genetics may play a role in how likely someone is to develop an addiction.

Addictions that don’t cause chemical changes in this way, such as gambling, still affect your thinking and emotions, making you psychologically dependent. Serious psychological dependence also results in chemical changes in your brain.

How is addiction treated?

Addiction can be difficult to treat, and the key is for you to want to make changes. The physicians at Carolina Wellness Psychiatry, PLLC have expertise in treating patients who have addictions and are here to help when you’re ready to take the next step and get help.  

Addictions cannot be cured – once you have an addiction, there’s always a risk of relapse, even after years of being sober or clean.  However, treatment is aimed at minimizing relapses and maximizing success.  

Some addictions, depending on the substance used and the duration of use, require medical monitoring for safe detox.  Once detox is achieved, addictions are generally treated with psychotherapy, medication, or both.  

Your physician will complete a comprehensive assessment of your symptoms and develop an individualized care plan.  Your treatment may include one of several types of therapy that help you identify your triggers to avoid relapse.  Your physician may also prescribe medication to minimize cravings or to treat underlying psychiatric diagnoses or symptoms.  

Take the first steps on the road to a better life by calling Carolina Wellness Psychiatry, PLLC, today, for an addiction consultation, or book an appointment online.