Dealing with any type of addiction can make you feel alone, confused and afraid. For those who have come to the realization that they’ve lost control of their substance abuse, it can be difficult to see a light at the end of the tunnel. Addiction is a powerful mental illness that makes you do many things that go against the person you view yourself as, and some people stay in their addiction to cover up the guilt and shame of what they’ve done. It’s important to realize that addiction is a disease, and you have the opportunity to get well if you’re willing to take the steps to do so.
Addiction is a Potentially Fatal Illness
There have been numerous studies about addiction, and it’s finally coming to light that addiction is actually a mental illness, and it’s also classified as a disease due to its characteristics. Unlike other illnesses, addiction is one that takes over the person’s mind, so an addict often hurts the people he or she cares about the most. There’s little pity for an addict, but you must realize that you’re not a bad person. You’re a sick person who can get well by getting the treatment that you need.
What separates an addict from other people is the functions of their prefrontal cortex and mid-brain. The mid-brain is the part of the brain that’s all about survival. It’s what tells you to eat, drink, reproduce and avoid danger. The signals from the mid-brain when stimulated go to the prefrontal cortex to help you make logical decisions about the situation with a chemical called dopamine. Those who are addicted have a problem with their prefrontal cortex that doesn’t allow them to make these logical decisions, so he or she will act on impulses when their brain is stimulated by drugs.
Methadone Detox for Opiate Addicts
Opiates are some of the most commonly abused drugs in the world today, and they cause a variety of symptoms of withdrawal with the addict tries to quit, which is where methadone detox can help. Methadone detox is a long-term detoxification process that helps replace the opiates that you were abusing. Those who go through a methadone detox are typically addicts who have been abusing strong prescription painkillers or heroin for a long time. Methadone detox is often used as a maintenance so you can begin the rehabilitation process without feeling all of the symptoms of withdrawal.
If you’re ready to overcome your addiction to painkillers or heroin, Serenity House Detox & Recovery can help you start the process. Our accredited detox programs are the first step in the recovery process. Once your body and mind are cleansed, we’ll help refer you to a qualified drug rehab center that will assist you in learning how to overcome your addiction so you can go on to live a happy, healthy life. Call us today at 866-294-5306 to learn more and to speak with an admissions counselor. Don’t wait – the rest of your life can be better than you have ever imagined.
