Statistics say there are more than 20 million Americans that suffer from an addiction, and it’s becoming more and more common. Nearly two million people are dependent on both drugs and alcohol. But dependent behaviors are very different from each other, yet they all have something in common: the unstoppable impulsive drive towards an addiction. The first intervention that the person has to face to help a drug addict is to assimilate the belief that drug addiction can be overcome and to be successful, it usually requires therapy for the entire family. 

Helping To Beat An Addiction 

Experts say when it comes to family therapy Maple Grove MN relatives must try to create a relationship based on trust with the latter, and become a point of reference for friendship and support, without falling into the typical requests for money for the purchase of drugs. More importantly, seek professional help. Often, misinformed parents try the self-care route, but this does not remedy the addiction because the root cause of the addiction is not being treated. 

Dependence on psychoactive substances is a real neurological disease, like Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s, which involves the brain’s motivational system. The drugs we are talking about can, in fact, replace some chemicals normally produced by our body, the so-called endogenous substances. In a healthy brain, the perception of the object of desire is regulated by endogenous substances. Drugs replace the normal process. The pleasure resulting from their consumption of drugs is so much more intense than chemical normally produced by the body no longer satisfy the brains, making it much more difficult to overcome. For example, the sensations produced by heroin can be much more intense than those experienced during sex and are therefore able to replace sexual desire. 

• Marijuana replaces the anandamide, a neurotransmitter involved in the mechanisms of regulation of appetite, memory, reproduction and cell proliferation.
• Cocaine replaces dopamine, the neurotransmitter involved in the processes of the management of movement and mood. 
• Heroin replaces endorphins, involved in pain management processes – they raise the threshold for behavior, learning, emotions, and sleep.

Working Together To Beat Addictions 

No one is prepared when a loved one is addicted to drugs, but there is a lot you can do. Experts point out that it will not be easy, and often will test your relationships. Additions require requires strength and tenacity for everyone. Addictions harm not only the lives of those who suffer them but also those within their immediate surroundings. Family and friends suffer at the same time as the addict, and that’s why it’s important that everyone seeks counseling. 

It’s important that you find specialized help. Addiction is born because it generates physical and psychological dependence on the drug. Whatever the psychoactive substance, at a higher level of consumption, the addict no longer faces the simple willpower to stop using. In fact, it’s dangerous because of unhealthy withdrawal syndrome. Counseling can offer comfort so you don’t feel that you are alone in the struggle. It will offer strength and courage without the fear of being judged or misunderstood, so seek help and you’ll be able to offer more support to your loved one.