Dependence
WHAT IS ADDICTION?
Dependence; It is the continuing use of a substance despite the fact that it causes mental, physical or social problems, the inability to quit despite the desire to quit, and the inability to stop the desire to take the substance. For many years, it was thought that the problem of addiction was a moral problem, that it emerged as a result of lack of willpower, or even that it was the result of a personality weakness. Drug addicts have always been ostracized because they are thought to be bad people with weak characters and unwilling to lead moral lives and control their behavior. However, developments in neuroscience and behavioral science have produced results that prove that this understanding of substance abuse and addiction is incorrect. Today, it is accepted that addictions are a chronic brain disease that progresses with recovery and relapses. Nowadays, addictions; It is included in the group of diseases such as diabetes, heart diseases, asthma, schizophrenia and dementia, which can be stopped with drug treatments and preventive measures, but are not completely cured.
Who Can Be Addicted?
Anyone can become addicted. There are many factors that affect the addiction process. The person's genetic structure, gender, existing mental illnesses, personality traits such as impulsivity and novelty-seeking, the environment in which one lives, chaotic home environment, substance use by parents in the family, lack of appropriate parental supervision, negative experiences in childhood, influence of friends, starting to use substances at an early age. and the properties of the substance itself affect the development of addiction. Beliefs such as saying that nothing will happen once, that drug use can be controlled, that the person will not be addicted even if others are addicted, and that individuals can keep this situation under control with their own will, increase the risk of addiction.
Does Addiction End? Is Treatment Possible?
People who use drugs can receive treatment. The rate of quitting drugs is quite high, especially in people who follow the treatment principles. Treatment not only includes quitting the drug, but also includes returning the person to their social life and living their life in a healthy way. This is possible by rebuilding the lifestyle without drugs. The person's motivation for treatment and compliance with treatment are very important. Existing among users The idea that "this disease has no cure" is a misconception. Willingness and determination make treatment possible.