This is how addiction was described in the class. It is a a primary disease meaning it isn't a symptom of any other condition. It is chronic because there is no cure and requires abstinence to stop. It's progressive because symptoms and results will continually get worse over time. It is potentially fatal in that it can kill directly or indirectly.
(All of these statements can be filled in with drugs or alcohol. If I only use one it's out of habit.)
Initially the drug is fun and makes the user happy. Difference between an addict and average person......
Average person has one-two drinks or "hits" of a drug and stops. They don't want to loose control. Because of this body reaction they know their limits, set them, and make a decision to stop.
Addict doesn't feel a loss of control. They feel exhilarated, uplifted, and even if there is a miserable hang over their mindset focuses on the lift portion.
The addicts brain is basically having an allergic reaction to the drug in that it manifests in a craving. The brain makes a connection that each time it gets the drug/alcohol it is happy! The addict feels no anxiety. When consequences happen their mind makes excuses. As the addiction takes control they find they can't function on routine tasks without it. They are only tired, bored, can't focus, cough, feel anxious without it and that's no fun!
They begin to see TONS of reasons to stop (family,work,school, faith) but the powerful connection is stronger and they are too trapped in it to quit.
Suddenly the fun is gone- they are humiliated-
Drug is their #1 priority.
There are two portions of the brain: the conscious (aware) and primitive mind. The primitive mind is where thirst comes from, the ability to walk without thinking, the body telling the lungs to breathe..... This is also where addiction lies. The drug/alcohol changes the brain and beings demanding the need just like the body needs food. The chemicals from the drugs block space so that healthy cells can't get in anymore.
Good news: the brain can be retrained!!! But it can take 6mos to 2 years for brain to heal!
Tips: (for success and to excel process)
Stop using
Give it time
Get in a treatment program
Healthy eating
Sleep on a consistent schedule
Exercise
Study, read, memorize, sudoku, crosswords
Religion/quiet time
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