Addiction, often referred to as drug addiction, is a complex condition, a brain disorder that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. It is a cycle that many find themselves caught in, often feeling powerless to change their circumstances. Understanding this cycle is crucial for both individuals struggling with addiction and their loved ones.
Definition of Substance Abuse
Addiction is a chronic disorder, characterized by the inability to stop using a substance or engaging in a behavior despite the negative impact it has on one’s life. It typically involves a physical dependence on a substance, leading to urges and cravings when the person doesn’t consume it for a certain amount of time.
Signs of addiction (regardless of substance) may include:
- Continued substance use despite adverse effects on the person’s life and relationships
- Social isolation
- Needing increasing amounts of a substance to feel any effect
- Failure to cut back use (even when the person wants to)
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities or hobbies
- Failure to meet life responsibilities
- Increased secrecy around substance use
- Financial problems
- Troubles with the law, such as theft or having a DUI
- Spending excessive time buying and using addictive substances
People develop addictions for many reasons. Many individuals turn to drugs or behaviors such as gambling as a coping mechanism for stress or emotional pain. This initial drug use can quickly escalate into more severe patterns of addiction. Additionally, societal and environmental factors play a significant role in the development of addiction. Factors such as peer pressure, socioeconomic status, and exposure to trauma can significantly influence an individual’s vulnerability to addiction.
Addiction can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to alcohol, prescription medications, illicit drugs, and behavioral addictions like internet gaming or shopping. Each type of addiction presents unique challenges and requires tailored approaches for effective intervention.
Stages of the Cycle of Addiction
The cycle of addiction can generally be broken down into distinct stages. Each stage reinforces the cycle, making it difficult for individuals to find their way out.
Initiation and Experimentation
Initiation and experimentation mark the beginning stages of the addiction cycle. During initiation, individuals may try a substance out of curiosity, peer pressure, or to temporarily cope with emotional difficulties. This stage often starts with occasional use, perhaps to alleviate stress or unwind after a long day. But what begins as casual experimentation may escalate to regular use, as the allure of the initial high can be powerful, leading individuals to seek out the substance more frequently.
Substance Use
During this stage, the individual may feel excitement and a temporary sense of euphoria, but it is essential to recognize that initial use sets the groundwork for future stages of the addiction cycle. The brain’s reward system is activated, releasing dopamine and creating a pleasurable experience that can be highly reinforcing. This initial high can lead to a desire for repeated use, as individuals chase that fleeting moment of bliss unaware of potential consequences. This can evolve into compulsive drug-seeking behavior, where the individual feels an uncontrollable urge to obtain and use the substance.
Tolerance
As individuals continue to use the substance, they often develop a tolerance, meaning that they need to consume larger amounts to achieve the same effect. This physiological adaptation can lead to increased use and a greater risk of overdose.
Tolerance can be dangerously deceptive, as individuals may not recognize the seriousness of their situation. They may convince themselves that they are in control and can handle the increased amounts, all while the addiction grows stronger. This stage can also lead to a cycle of escalating use, where the individual feels compelled to seek out the substance more frequently.
Dependence
Drug dependence occurs when the brain becomes so accustomed to the substance that it cannot function normally without it. During this stage, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms when not using the addictive substance. These are physical or psychological reactions that occur when the substance is not available. This kind of dependence can make it extremely challenging to quit without experiencing significant discomfort.
This may drive individuals to prioritize obtaining and using the substance over responsibilities and relationships, further entrenching themselves in addiction. Individuals may feel isolated and ashamed of their behavior, and may conceal evidence of the amount or extent of their substance use. This can all lead to a pattern of self-medication to cope with these feelings.
Addiction/Risky Drug Use
The stage of addiction is marked by a compulsive need to use the substance, regardless of the consequences. Individuals may engage in risky behaviors to secure their drug of choice, such as stealing or associating with unsafe individuals. This compulsive use can lead to severe health issues, legal problems, and deteriorating social relationships. Individuals may rationalize their behavior, believing they can quit whenever they wish to. The desire and physical need for the substance can overshadow all other priorities, leading to a breakdown of trust with family and friends.
Intent to Quit
At any point in the cycle, an individual may experience a moment of clarity or realization of the damage their addiction has caused. This stage is characterized by the intention to quit using the substance, which can manifest as attempts to control consumption or reach out for help.
But this intention can fluctuate, as many individuals find themselves unable to move forward due to fear, anxiety about withdrawal, or a lack of support and/or resources. This stage often brings about a mix of hope and frustration, as individuals may grapple with a desire for change while feeling trapped by their addiction.
Withdrawal Symptoms/Urges to Self-Medicate
Withdrawal symptoms can be extremely challenging to endure, often leading individuals to desire to self-medicate to alleviate their discomfort. This can be a critical point in the cycle, as individuals may relapse to avoid the pain of withdrawal.
Identifying situations, emotions, or environments that trigger a desire to use can help in forming strategies to cope without resorting to the substance. Developing healthy coping mechanisms, such as engaging in physical activity, practicing mindfulness, or seeking professional help, can be instrumental in breaking the cycle. Individuals confront both their physical dependence and the emotional scars left by their addiction.
Relapse
Without self-knowledge and healthy coping mechanisms, there’s an increased rate of relapse for people experiencing withdrawal symptoms after quitting addictive substances. But a relapse doesn’t mean that there’s no hope of maintaining sobriety. It’s only a sign that the individual’s system of coping with the addiction cycle is flawed. It’s completely possible for a person to get back to sobriety and resume their journey to recovery.
How Can the Cycle of Addiction Be Broken?
Breaking the cycle of addiction is a challenging but achievable process. It often requires a combination of professional help, personal commitment, and support from friends and family. Effective addiction treatment often involves a combination of medical and psychological support tailored to the individual’s needs.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Aftercare
Aftercare programs are designed to support individuals with substance abuse as they transition back into everyday life. This may include sober living arrangements, support groups, or continued therapy sessions. Engaging in aftercare ensures that individuals have a support system to turn to while navigating the challenges of everyday life without the substance. Creating a strong network can help prevent relapse and foster personal growth.
Relapse Prevention Plans for Substance Use Disorders
Having a well-thought-out plan can empower individuals, making them feel more in control and prepared to handle challenging situations that may arise during recovery. These plans are crucial for individuals recovering from substance use disorders, as they provide a roadmap for maintaining sobriety and avoiding the addiction cycle. These plans may include practicing mindfulness, employing stress management techniques, and identifying safe environments.
Ongoing Support
Ongoing support is crucial for individuals recovering from substance abuse. Incorporating regular check-ins with a therapist or support group can provide ongoing accountability and encouragement after completing a treatment program. Outpatient counseling, peer support groups, and community organizations can provide the necessary support to stay out of the addiction cycle.
Get Help at First Steps Recovery
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, seeking professional help is a crucial first step. First Steps Recovery offers a compassionate approach to treatment, providing the resources needed to break the cycle of addiction. Our addiction treatment programs are designed to address the unique needs of each individual, ensuring a comprehensive approach to recovery. Dual diagnosis treatment is available for many conditions, and treatment options include individual counseling, group therapy, and holistic approaches.
First Steps Recovery strives to cater to the unique needs of each individual with personal treatment plans designed for success. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help — contact us today to learn more.
Dr. Curl is the Medical Director and primary on-site provider for First Steps Recovery. He is a Board Certified Internist and Addiction Medicine Specialist having attended the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and completing his residency at Mount Auburn Hospital with Harvard Medical School. Following several years work as an internist and physiatrist (physical medicine and rehabilitation). Dr. Curl completed the Addiction Medicine Fellowship at Howard University in Washington DC and participated as a RAM Scholar (Research in Addiction Medicine). While part of the fellowship, Dr. Curl pursued research investigating the barriers to expanding and improving medication for opioid use disorder. Following his fellowship, Dr. Curl spearheaded the Opiate Use Disorder outpatient clinic and worked in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences within the Howard University Hospital. In 2023, Dr. Curl completed his Board Certification in Addiction Medicine.
