Alcohol and drug addiction

Overview

Addiction is a serious, ongoing brain disorder where people become physically and mentally hooked on substances like drugs or alcohol or even certain behaviours. This dependence can be so powerful that people continue their harmful habits even if it puts themselves or others in danger. Over time, using these substances can lead to a dangerous cycle where someone feels they need to keep using them to avoid the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms¹. It's often hard for people to realize they've become addicted because they might think it's just a temporary way to cope with pain, grief, anxiety, or other difficult experiences². 

Causes of Alcohol and Drug Addiction 

Many risk factors could lead a person to become addicted to alcohol and drugs³:

• Biology: Biology plays a significant role in addiction risk, with genetics contributing to about half of an individual’s susceptibility. Factors such as gender, ethnicity, and the presence of other mental health conditions can also impact the likelihood of drug use and addiction.
• Environment: Environmental influences are also crucial, encompassing a wide range of factors from family dynamics and social circles to financial status and overall life circumstances. Peer pressure, experiences of abuse (physical or sexual), early drug exposure, high levels of stress, and the type of parental guidance a person receives can all greatly influence the risk of developing addiction.
• Development: Developmental factors further interact with genetic and environmental elements to shape addiction risks at various life stages. While drug use at any age carries the potential for addiction, earlier use significantly increases the chances of progression to dependency. This is especially concerning for teenagers, whose brains are still maturing in areas responsible for decision-making, judgment, and self-control, making them more vulnerable to engaging in risky behaviours, such as experimenting with drugs.

Signs of Alcohol and Drug Addiction 

• Compulsive Use and Cravings: Compulsive use and cravings are key indicators of substance abuse, where individuals feel a constant need to use the drug regularly, often daily or multiple times a day. This craving becomes all-consuming, making it hard to focus on anything else. Over time, tolerance develops, meaning the body becomes less sensitive to the drug's effects, requiring larger amounts to achieve the same high.
• Loss of Control and Negative Consequences: Loss of control and negative consequences follow, as individuals often use more than they initially intended, prioritizing securing a steady drug supply and sometimes going to extreme lengths to obtain it. The financial strain becomes an issue, with money spent on the drug taking precedence over other financial responsibilities. Responsibilities such as work, school, or social activities are neglected, and the person may withdraw from previously enjoyed hobbies. Despite recognizing the harm to physical, mental, and relational well-being, continued use persists.
• Risky Behaviors: Risky behaviours are another hallmark of addiction, with individuals engaging in illegal activities like stealing to get the drug or engaging in dangerous behaviours while under the influence, such as driving or having unprotected sex.
• Withdrawal and Failed Attempts to Quit: A significant amount of time and energy is consumed by obtaining, using, or recovering from the drug's effects. Attempts to quit may be unsuccessful, and withdrawal symptoms—such as anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and nausea—can make it incredibly difficult to stop using the drug⁴.

Is Addiction Hereditary?

While genetics can influence a person's susceptibility to addiction, it's not the sole determining factor. Environmental influences, such as exposure to drugs and addiction within a family, and personal temperament, like sensitivity to stress or impulsivity, also play significant roles. Scientists are actively researching the link between genes and addiction to find new ways to prevent and treat it⁵. 

Alcohol and Drug Addiction and TCIH Approaches

Many complementary health approaches have been studied to help relieve the symptoms of addiction: 

• Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a low-cost, safe treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) when performed by trained practitioners. It can help decrease alcohol consumption, ease withdrawal symptoms, and restore balance to neurotransmitter and hormone levels in areas of the brain affected by addiction⁶.

• Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT): AAT aids in recovery by enhancing mood, alleviating stress and anxiety, and offering a unique form of emotional support that differs from human interaction. It involves structured activities that are goal-oriented and designed to assist individuals in overcoming addiction⁷.

• Art Therapy: Research suggests that art therapy can serve as a powerful tool in addiction recovery by helping individuals break through denial and access repressed emotions. It is particularly useful for those who find it difficult to express their thoughts and feelings verbally⁸.

• Āyurveda: According to Ayurvedic philosophy, humans inherently seek pleasure and avoid pain, which are basic survival instincts. However, the pursuit of these desires without balance can lead to illness⁹. Ayurveda views addiction as a disruption in the body’s equilibrium, aiming to restore harmony through herbal remedies, dietary changes, and energy-based therapies.

• Counselling: Addiction counselling is a well-researched treatment designed for individuals with substance use disorders. Typically conducted by a trained and experienced counsellor, it provides insights and education about addiction and the recovery journey, helping individuals better understand their condition¹⁰.

• ThetaHealing: While not heavily backed by scientific research, thetaHealing can be a helpful tool in recovery. One of the most challenging aspects of early recovery is changing ingrained habits and thoughts. This holistic approach may assist individuals in reprogramming their mindset and living without the need for substance use¹¹.

• Yoga Therapy: Yoga is a mindful practice that helps individuals manage stress, making it especially beneficial for those in addiction recovery. Through physical and mental techniques, yoga targets the areas of the brain affected by substance use disorders, helping reduce cravings and promote healing¹².