Addiction is engaging in certain behaviors or consuming specific substances that leads individuals to prioritize these actions over other aspects of life, even when faced with adverse outcomes. This pattern involves a persistent desire to experience the associated rewards, making it challenging to reduce or cease the behavior.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), it is recognized as a brain disorder because it involves functional changes to brain circuits related to reward, stress, and self-control. These changes persist long after substance use has ceased, underscoring that addiction is a disease, not a choice.
Addiction manifests in various forms, including substance use disorders like alcohol, nicotine, opioids, and cocaine, as well as behavioral addictions such as gambling, gaming, and shopping. According to a study “Mental Health and Substance Use Co-Occurring Disorders” (2023) published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), common signs and symptoms are an inability to stop using a substance or engaging in a behavior, neglecting social or occupational responsibilities, and continuing the behavior despite knowing its harmful effects. Changes in behavior include changes in appetite or sleep patterns, personality and attitude changes, mood swings, and anxiety. Physical changes include weight gain or loss, tremors, and bloodshot eyes.
The development of addiction is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), genetic predisposition, exposure to substance use in one’s environment, and underlying mental health conditions all contribute to the onset of addiction. The effects are far-reaching, impacting physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and professional life.
Addiction progresses through four stages: experimentation, regular use, dependence, and addiction. It begins with casual or social use, where a person tries a substance out of curiosity or peer influence. Over time, regular use develops, leading to increased tolerance and the need for more to achieve the same effect. As dependence sets in, withdrawal symptoms appear when the substance is not used, making it harder to quit. Eventually, full-blown addiction takes hold, where compulsive use continues despite negative consequences, requiring professional intervention for recovery.
Addiction profoundly impacts both physical and mental health. Physically, it leads to diseases affecting the heart, lungs, and liver, and increases the risk of stroke and cancer. Mentally, addiction results in paranoia, aggression, hallucinations, impaired judgment, and loss of self-control. These health issues significantly diminish an individual’s quality of life and require comprehensive treatment to address both the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder.
Treatment options are diverse and tailored to the individual’s needs. They include behavioral therapies, counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and support groups. Comprehensive treatment plans address co-occurring mental health disorders and aim to restore the individual’s overall quality of life.
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli, despite adverse consequences. According to a study by Kranzler HR, Li TK., et al. (2008), titled “What is addiction?” state that “Addiction fundamentally alters brain circuits involved in reward processing, motivation, memory, and inhibitory control.”
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that in 2022, 48.7 million individuals aged 12 or older in the United States (17.3% of this population) had a substance use disorder (SUD) in the past year. This includes 29.5 million with an alcohol use disorder and 27.2 million with a drug use disorder. The impact of addiction extends beyond individual health, affecting families, communities, and societies.
What Are Types of Addictions?
Addictions are classified into two primary categories: substance addictions and behavioral addictions. Each type involves compulsive behaviors or substance use despite harmful consequences, impacting both physical health and mental well-being. Behavioral addiction, such as internet addiction is as dangerous as drug addiction. According to Alavi SS, Ferdosi M, et al. (2012), in the study “Behavioral Addiction versus Substance Addiction: Correspondence of Psychiatric and Psychological Views” address that the individual is not addicted to a substance but the behavior or the feeling brought about by the relevant action.
Substance addictions involve the compulsive use of drugs or alcohol, leading to physical and psychological dependence. Behavioral addictions, on the other hand, pertain to compulsive engagement in rewarding behaviors such as gambling or excessive internet use, despite negative consequences. Both types significantly impair an individual’s daily functioning and well-being.
1. Substance Addiction
Substance addiction, also known as substance use disorder, is a chronic condition characterized by an individual’s inability to control the consumption of substances such as alcohol, nicotine, opioids, or illicit drugs, despite adverse consequences. In the United States, substance use disorders are a public health concern. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that according to a 2022 National Survey, 48.7 million individuals aged 12 or older (17.3% of the population) had a substance use disorder in the past year. This includes 29.5 million with an alcohol use disorder and 27.2 million with a drug use disorder.
In North Carolina, the impact of substance addiction is profound. According to the 2021 survey conducted by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS), North Carolina reported 4,041 overdose deaths, marking a 22% increase from the previous year and representing the highest number of overdose deaths in a single year on record.
Common types of substance addictions include:
- Alcohol: In North Carolina, the prevalence of past-year alcohol use disorder among individuals aged 12 or older was 4.7% during 2017–2019, equating to 405,000 people, as reported by The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
- Nicotine: Tobacco use remains a concern in North Carolina. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that in 2022, 14.5% of adults in the state were smokers, slightly above the national average of 14.0%. Among high school students, 3.9% reported smoking cigarettes in 2021, aligning closely with the national rate of 3.8%.
- Opioids: The opioid crisis has profoundly affected North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced that in 2020, North Carolina reported a 40% increase in overdose deaths compared to 2019, with an average of nine residents dying each day from drug overdoses. Illicit opioids, such as heroin and fentanyl, were involved in more than 70% of these deaths.
- Illegal Drugs: Substances like cocaine, methamphetamine, and cannabis are commonly abused in North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced that in 2019, there were nearly 15,000 emergency department visits related to drug overdoses in the state, highlighting the significant impact of illegal drug use.
2. Behavioral Addiction
Behavioral addiction, also known as non-substance addiction, refers to the compulsive engagement in rewarding behaviors despite adverse consequences. These behavioral disorders activate the brain’s reward system similarly to substance addictions, leading individuals to persist in activities that disrupt their daily lives. Behavioral addictions share similarities with substance addictions in various aspects, including their natural history, phenomenology, tolerance development, comorbidity, genetic contributions, neurobiological mechanisms, and treatment responses.
In the United States, behavioral addictions are increasingly recognized, though precise prevalence rates vary due to evolving diagnostic criteria. According to a study “Clinical and Research Implications of Gambling Disorder in DSM-5” (2014), by Jeremiah Weinstock, Carla J from Saint Louis University Rash found that gambling disorder is the behavioral addiction officially recognized in the DSM-5, with an estimated prevalence of 1% in the U.S. adult population.Common types of behavioral addictions include:
- Gambling: Persistent and problematic gambling behavior leading to significant distress or impairment.
- Gaming: Excessive video game playing that interferes with daily responsibilities and social functioning.
- Internet Use: Compulsive engagement with online activities, such as social media or browsing, to the detriment of offline life.
- Shopping: Uncontrolled purchasing behaviors resulting in financial and personal issues.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Addiction?
Addiction manifests through a variety of signs and symptoms that are categorized into physical, behavioral, and psychological domains. Recognizing these indicators is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment.
1. Physical Signs and Symptoms
Addiction manifests through various physical symptoms, which vary depending on the substance or behavior involved. Recognizing these signs is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment.
Physical Symptoms:
- Significant Weight Changes: Individuals experience noticeable weight loss or gain due to altered appetite or neglect of nutrition.
- Tremors or Shaking: Uncontrollable shaking, especially in the hands, occurs, indicating withdrawal or excessive use.
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or lethargy is common, resulting from disrupted sleep patterns or the body’s effort to process substances.
- Bloodshot or Glazed Eyes: Red or glazed eyes indicate substance use, reflecting irritation or intoxication.
- Dilated or Constricted Pupils: Abnormal pupil size indicates drug use, with some substances causing dilation and others constriction.
- Unusual Body Odors: Neglect of personal hygiene or the presence of certain substances leads to distinctive body smells.
- Slurred Speech: Impaired speech results from the depressant effects of substances on the central nervous system.
- Coordination Problems: Difficulty with motor skills, such as stumbling or unsteady movements, is evident.
- Frequent Nosebleeds: Especially with inhaled substances, recurrent nosebleeds occur due to nasal tissue damage.
2. Behavioral Signs and Symptoms
Key indicators include:
- Changes in Social Behavior: Individuals withdraw from family and friends, leading to isolation. They might abandon previously enjoyed activities, resulting in relationship issues.
- Secrecy: Engaging in secretive actions, such as hiding substance use or concealing related paraphernalia, is common. This behavior stems from guilt or fear of judgment.
- Neglect of Responsibilities: Addiction causes individuals to neglect duties at work, school, or home. This neglect leads to declining performance, disciplinary actions, or strained relationships.
3. Psychological Signs and Symptoms
Addiction presents with various psychological signs that significantly impact an individual’s mental health and daily functioning.
Key psychological symptoms include:
- Mood Swings: Individuals experience rapid and unpredictable changes in mood, ranging from euphoria to deep depression, without an apparent external trigger.
- Anxiety: Persistent feelings of worry, nervousness, or unease arise, especially when access to the addictive substance or behavior is restricted.
- Depression: A pervasive sense of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities develops, sometimes leading to suicidal thoughts.
- Obsessive Thinking: The individual becomes preoccupied with thoughts about the substance or behavior, finding it challenging to focus on other aspects of life.
- Irritability: Increased agitation or frustration occurs, particularly during periods of withdrawal or when unable to engage in addictive behavior.
- Paranoia: Unjustified distrust or suspicion of others develops, sometimes escalating to delusional thinking.
- Emotional Numbness: A diminished ability to experience or express emotions, leading to detachment from personal relationships and daily activities.
What are the Causes of Addiction?
The causes of addiction are environmental factors, genetic predispositions, mental health conditions, peer pressure, trauma, early exposure to substances or behaviors, and additional influences. These elements interact in complex ways, contributing to the development of addictive behaviors.
Common causes of addiction are given below:
- Environmental Factors: Living in an environment where substance use is prevalent increases the risk of developing an addiction. According to a study by McCarty, D. et al. 1985, titled “Environmental Factors in Substance Abuse”, exposure to addictive substances, peer influence, and socioeconomic conditions shape behaviors and increase susceptibility to addiction.
- Genetic Predisposition: A family history of addiction makes individuals more susceptible due to inherited genetic factors. According to a study by Bevilacqua L, Goldman D., et al., 2009, titled “Genes and Addictions” state that genetics plays a significant role in predisposing individuals to addiction. The study indicates that genes influence the risk of developing addiction by affecting brain chemistry and response to substances.
- Mental Health Disorders: Conditions such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder lead individuals to use substances as a form of self-medication, increasing the risk of addiction. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), half of people who experience a mental illness also experience a substance use disorder at some point in their lives.
- Peer Pressure: Especially among adolescents, the influence of peers encourages experimentation with substances, potentially leading to addiction.
- Trauma: Experiencing traumatic events results in emotional distress, prompting individuals to seek relief through substance use, which develops into addiction. According to Chassin L., Presson C., et al. (2013), titled “Developmental factors in addiction: Methodological considerations” report that Childhood trauma, neglect, or abuse increase the likelihood of using substances as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional pain or distress.
- Early Exposure to Substances: Initiating substance use at a young age disrupts brain development, increasing the likelihood of developing addictive behaviors later in life.
- Lack of Family Involvement: Weak family bonds or lack of supervision contribute to the development of addiction.
What are the Different Stages of Addiction?
The different stages of addictions include Initial Use, Misuse, Tolerance, Dependence, Addiction, and Relapse. Understanding these stages aids in early identification and intervention.
The stages of addiction are given below:
- Initial Use: This stage involves the first encounter with a substance or behavior, driven by curiosity, social influence, or medical necessity.
- Misuse: At this point, the individual begins to engage in the substance or behavior more frequently or in larger amounts than intended, seeking its pleasurable effects.
- Tolerance: Over time, the body adapts, requiring increased amounts of the substance or more intense engagement in the behavior to achieve the same effect.
- Dependence: The individual becomes reliant on the substance or behavior to function normally, experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not engaged.
- Addiction: Characterized by compulsive engagement despite adverse consequences, the individual prioritizes the substance or behavior over other aspects of life.
- Relapse: After attempts to quit, returning to the substance or behavior is common, triggered by stress or environmental cues.
What Are The Effects Of Addiction?
The effects of addiction are physical and mental. Physically, addiction leads to significant health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, liver damage, respiratory problems, and weakened immune systems. Mentally, individuals experience mood disorders, anxiety, depression, cognitive impairments, and changes in behavior. These combined effects severely impact an individual’s overall well-being and quality of life.
Physical Effects Of Addiction
The physical effects of addiction are given below:
- Cardiovascular Issues: Addiction leads to heart problems, including irregular heartbeats, heart attacks, and elevated blood pressure.
- Respiratory Problems: Substance abuse causes respiratory issues, such as lung infections or chronic bronchitis.
- Liver Damage: The liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing substances. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), prolonged substance use results in liver diseases, including cirrhosis and hepatitis.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Addiction causes nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
- Neurological Impairments: Prolonged substance abuse leads to significant neurological impairments. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), substance abuse leads to seizures, strokes, and other neurological problems.
- Weakened Immune System: Addiction compromises the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections.
- Skin Disorders: Substance abuse causes skin infections or other dermatological issues.
Mental Effects Of Drug Addiction
The mental effects of addiction are given below:
- Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness arise, exacerbated by the impact of addiction on personal and professional life. According to a study “ Comorbidity between Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) and major depression” by Glenn E. Hunt, et al, (2020) found that 25% of individuals with major depressive disorder also have a substance use disorder.
- Anxiety: Individuals experience heightened nervousness or worry, particularly in situations where the addictive substance or behavior is unavailable.
- Paranoia: Unjustified distrust or suspicion of others develops, sometimes leading to social withdrawal.
- Hallucinations: Some substances induce sensory experiences that appear real but are created by the mind, affecting perception.
- Cognitive Impairment: Addiction leads to difficulties with attention, memory, and decision-making, impacting daily functioning.
- Emotional Instability: Rapid mood swings and irritability are common, resulting from the neurological impact of substances.
- Obsessive Thoughts: Individuals become preoccupied with obtaining and using the substance or engaging in the behavior, overshadowing other aspects of life.
How Is Addiction Diagnosed?
To diagnose addiction, a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals is necessary, utilizing clinical interviews and standardized screening tools. A key component of this process is the application of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria, which outlines 11 specific indicators for substance use disorders. These indicators assess aspects such as impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological effects.
The severity of the disorder is determined based on the number of criteria met: two to three indicate a mild disorder, four to five suggest a moderate disorder, and six or more signify a severe disorder. Tools like the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5) assist clinicians in systematically evaluating these criteria during patient assessments. Additionally, various screening instruments are employed to identify the presence and extent of addictive behaviors, facilitating early detection and intervention.
What are the Treatments for Addiction?
The treatments for addiction encompass a range of approaches tailored to individual needs, including detoxification, medications, psychotherapy, inpatient and outpatient programs, and support groups. These methods aim to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction, promoting recovery and long-term well-being.
The treatments for addiction are given below:
Detox
Detoxification or detox is the process of safely eliminating drugs from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms. Medically supervised detox is critical for substances like alcohol, opioids, and benzodiazepines due to severe withdrawal risks, such as seizures and life-threatening complications. While stimulant withdrawal is less physically dangerous, it causes psychological distress, including depression and suicidal thoughts, requiring medical support. Detox stabilizes the body and mind, providing a foundation for recovery.
The detoxification typically includes three stages:
- Evaluation: Assessing the individual’s health and substance use to develop a tailored detox plan.
- Stabilization: Providing medical and psychological support to manage withdrawal symptoms, which involve medications to ease discomfort.
- Transition to further treatment: Preparing the individual for ongoing addiction treatment, such as therapy or counseling, to address underlying issues and prevent relapse.
Medications
Medications play a crucial role in treating substance use disorders by alleviating withdrawal symptoms, reducing cravings, and normalizing brain function. For opioid addiction, medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone are commonly used. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), in cases of alcohol dependence, medications like disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone are prescribed.
Here is an overview of these medications:
Opioid Addiction Medications:
- Methadone: Long-acting opioid agonist; reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by activating opioid receptors without euphoria; aids in therapy engagement.
- Buprenorphine: Partial opioid agonist; reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms; lower misuse risk and widely accessible.
- Naltrexone: According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids and alcohol, reducing the desire to use these substances. It is available in oral and extended-release injectable forms.
Alcohol Dependence Medications:
- Disulfiram: Deterrent; causes unpleasant reactions (e.g., nausea) when alcohol is consumed; effective for abstinence-committed individuals.
- Acamprosate: Restores neurotransmitter balance disrupted by chronic alcohol use; reduces withdrawal symptoms and supports sobriety after detox.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, commonly known as talk therapy, is a therapeutic approach where mental health professionals assist individuals in understanding and addressing their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to promote mental well-being. In addiction treatment, psychotherapy encompasses various techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals recognize and alter negative thought patterns, and contingency management, which provides tangible rewards for positive behaviors. By addressing the psychological aspects of addiction, behavioral therapies empower individuals to manage triggers, reduce cravings, and maintain long-term sobriety.
Here are some common behavioral therapies used in addiction treatment:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to substance use. A study “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Substance Use Disorders” by R Kathryn McHugh, Bridget A Hearon, et al. from Boston University found that CBT emphasizes the development of coping strategies for triggers and stressors to prevent relapse.
- Contingency Management: This method relies on rewarding positive behaviors to promote and sustain abstinence from substance use. According to a study “Behavioral Therapies for Drug Abuse” by Kathleen M Carroll, Lisa S Onken from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that CM uses positive reinforcement, such as vouchers or prizes, to encourage abstinence and achievement of specific behavioral goals like sobriety or attending therapy sessions
- Family Behavior Therapy (FBT): FBT includes family members in the treatment process to address substance use alongside co-occurring issues like family conflict or poor communication. According to a study “Behavioral Therapies for Drug Abuse” by Kathleen M Carroll, Lisa S Onken from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that FBT aims to improve the home environment and create a supportive network for recovery
- Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA): CRA ) is a comprehensive program that encourages individuals to replace substance use with positive behaviors supported by their community. It incorporates vocational counseling, relationship counseling, and recreational activities to foster a meaningful sober lifestyle.
Inpatient and Outpatient treatment
Inpatient and outpatient treatments are two primary methods for addressing drug addiction, each providing unique levels of care and support.
- Inpatient Treatment involves staying in a dedicated facility for a specific duration, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months. Patients benefit from round-the-clock medical care, structured therapy sessions, and group counseling in a controlled setting. This focused approach helps reduce exposure to external influences, enabling individuals to concentrate fully on their recovery journey.
- Outpatient Treatment allows individuals to remain at home while participating in scheduled treatment sessions at a clinic or center. This option offers varying levels of intensity and includes one-on-one counseling, group therapy, educational programs, and relapse prevention techniques. It is recommended for those with less severe addictions or as a follow-up to inpatient treatment.
Support groups
Support groups are assemblies where individuals struggling with addiction convene to exchange experiences and provide reciprocal encouragement. These gatherings offer a safe environment where participants share personal stories and coping strategies and provide mutual support. By fostering a sense of community and understanding, support groups help individuals feel less isolated in their struggles, enhance motivation for recovery, and offer practical advice from those who have faced similar challenges. Engaging in such groups significantly bolsters one’s commitment to sobriety and provides a network of accountability and encouragement throughout the recovery journey.
Is Addiction Considered a Disease?
Yes, addiction is a chronic disease characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). Addiction disrupts normal brain function, particularly in areas responsible for judgment, decision-making, learning, and behavior control. These neurological changes underscore the classification of addiction as a medical disorder.
Is Addiction the Same as Substance Dependence?
No, addiction and substance dependence are not the same, though they are closely related concepts. Addiction is characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences, involving psychological and behavioral components such as cravings and loss of control over use. Substance dependence, on the other hand, refers to the physical aspect, where the body adapts to a substance, leading to tolerance (requiring more of the substance to achieve the same effect) and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation. An individual develops physical dependence without being addicted, as seen in patients using certain medications under medical supervision. However, addiction typically encompasses both psychological dependence and physical dependence. Understanding the distinction between these terms is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
How to Prevent Addiction?
To prevent addiction involves implementing various strategies to reduce the risk of substance misuse and promote overall well-being.
Key prevention tips include:
- Education: Informing individuals, especially youth, about the risks associated with substance use deter initiation and promote healthy choices.
- Develop Coping Skills: Equipping individuals with effective stress management and emotional regulation techniques reduces the likelihood of turning to substances as a coping mechanism.
- Parental Involvement: Active engagement by parents in their children’s lives, including open communication and supervision, decreases the risk of substance use.
- Peer Resistance Training: Teaching individuals how to resist peer pressure empowers them to make independent, healthy decisions regarding substance use.
- Community Programs: Participation in community-based prevention initiatives fosters a supportive environment that discourages substance misuse.
- Policy Enforcement: Implementing and enforcing policies that limit access to substances, such as age restrictions and regulations, reduce availability and use.
- Early Intervention: Identifying and addressing early signs of substance use or related behavioral issues prevent the escalation to addiction.
What are the Most Common Addictions in the United States?
The most common addictions in the United States are alcohol, cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and Xanax. Alcohol addiction, or alcohol use disorder, affects a significant portion of the population, leading to numerous health and social issues. Additionally, addictions to substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and benzodiazepines like Xanax are also common, each presenting unique challenges for individuals and healthcare providers.
The most common addictions in the United States are given below:
Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a medical condition where individuals struggle to control or stop drinking, even when it causes negative effects on their health, work, or relationships. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) explains that alcohol, a depressant, slows brain activity, impairing thinking and motor skills. According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 28.9 million people aged 12 and older (10.2% of this group) experienced AUD in the past year.
Signs of alcohol addiction include difficulty limiting drinking, needing more alcohol to feel its effects (tolerance), experiencing withdrawal symptoms like nausea and sweating when not drinking, and continuing to drink despite its negative consequences.
A 2020-2021 survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that excessive alcohol use is one of the top preventable causes of death in the U.S., leading to 178,000 deaths annually. While alcohol is legally available to those 21 and older, its misuse causes severe health and social problems. AUD is a serious issue that requires appropriate care and treatment.
Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine addiction is a serious condition marked by uncontrollable drug use despite negative consequences. Cocaine, a strong stimulant made from coca plant leaves found in South America, speeds up the heart rate and raises blood pressure, boosting energy and alertness. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), cocaine is classified as a Schedule II drug in the U.S., meaning it has a high risk of misuse but limited medical use, such as in certain surgeries for local anesthesia. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported that, in 2021, 1.4 million people aged 12 and older in the U.S. used cocaine in the past year.
Signs of cocaine use include increased energy, excessive talkativeness, restlessness, irritability, anxiety, paranoia, and dilated pupils. Physical effects include a faster heart rate, high blood pressure, and elevated body temperature. In the U.S., using cocaine for non-medical purposes is illegal due to its high potential for addiction and harm.
Fentanyl Addiction
Fentanyl addiction is a serious condition where individuals have an uncontrollable urge to use the drug despite its harmful effects. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), fentanyl is approved by the FDA for managing severe pain, such as after surgery or for complex pain conditions. According to a study titled “Fentanyl: New Wave, New Age, New Addiction?” (2024), by Juli et al.report that fentanyl and other synthetic opioids have been linked to more than 70% of opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. in recent years.
Signs of fentanyl use include extreme drowsiness, confusion, constipation, sedation, difficulty breathing, and even unconsciousness. While fentanyl is legally prescribed for certain medical conditions, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that illicitly made fentanyl is a major factor in the sharp increase in overdose deaths in the U.S.
Heroin Addiction
Heroin addiction is a serious condition where individuals cannot stop using the drug despite harmful consequences. Heroin is a highly addictive, illegal opioid made from morphine, which comes from the opium poppy plant. As a depressant, heroin slows down the central nervous system and changes how the brain processes pain and pleasure. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that heroin overdose deaths rose from 3,036 in 2010 to 15,469 in 2016. While deaths decreased to 5,871 in 2022, nearly 80% of these cases involved both heroin and fentanyl.
Common signs of heroin addiction include intense cravings, needing larger doses to feel the same effect (tolerance), withdrawal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and muscle pain, neglecting responsibilities, and risky behavior to get the drug. Heroin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the U.S., meaning it has no accepted medical use and a high risk of abuse, making its use, sale, and possession illegal.
Meth Addiction
Methamphetamine addiction is a serious condition where individuals continue to use the drug despite harmful consequences. Commonly known as meth, it is a powerful synthetic stimulant that impacts the central nervous system by boosting alertness, energy, and focus. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), methamphetamine is legally available in the U.S. only by a non-refillable prescription for specific conditions like ADHD and short-term obesity treatment. Its medical use is very limited, and non-medical use is illegal.
The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported that 1.5 million people aged 12 or older in the U.S. used methamphetamine in the past year. Overdose deaths linked to stimulants, including methamphetamine, have significantly increased, reaching over 34,000 in 2021.
Signs of meth use include heightened physical activity, loss of appetite, rapid or irregular heartbeat, and high blood pressure. Prolonged use causes severe dental issues (“meth mouth”), anxiety, confusion, insomnia, mood swings, and aggressive behavior. Long-term use also results in cognitive impairment and a higher risk of stroke.
Xanax Addiction
Xanax addiction is a serious condition marked by the uncontrollable use of the drug despite harmful consequences. Also known by its generic name, alprazolam, Xanax is commonly prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. A study in the Journal of Addiction Medicine identified alprazolam as the most prescribed and misused benzodiazepine in the United States.
According to the study “Benzodiazepine Use and Misuse Among Adults in the United States” (2019) by Donovan T. Maust et al., published in Psychiatric Services, 30.6 million adults in the U.S. reported using benzodiazepines in the past year, with 5.3 million (17.2%) misusing them. As a central nervous system depressant, Xanax promotes relaxation and sedation but carries a significant risk of dependence and misuse, even when prescribed.
Signs of Xanax addiction include needing higher doses to achieve the same effect (tolerance), withdrawal symptoms like anxiety and insomnia when stopping use, neglecting responsibilities, and withdrawing from social activities. Due to its high potential for dependence, Xanax is only taken under strict medical supervision.