5 Tips for Staying Sober
You’ve done the work to become clean and sober, and you want to do what you can to stay that way. Here are five great tips that will help you safeguard your freedom from a substance use disorder.
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What Is Addiction? Understanding the Basics
Addiction is a complex condition that affects millions of individuals and families, yet it’s often misunderstood. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, understanding what addiction really is can be the first step toward recovery.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is a chronic brain disease that affects the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It goes beyond occasional use—addiction involves a compulsive need to use substances despite harmful consequences to health, relationships, work, or school.
The American Society of Addiction Medicine defines addiction as a “treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences.”
How Addiction Affects the Brain
Substances like alcohol, opioids, methamphetamine, and cocaine hijack the brain’s reward system. Over time, the brain begins to rely on the substance to feel pleasure, manage stress, or even feel “normal.”
Key brain changes include:
- Increased cravings for the substance
- Reduced ability to feel pleasure from natural rewards (like food, hobbies, or relationships)
- Impaired judgment and decision-making
Common Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
Everyone’s experience is unique, but here are some general signs to look for:
- Needing more of the substance to get the same effect (tolerance)
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using
- Lying or hiding use
- Neglecting responsibilities at home, school, or work
- Failed attempts to stop or cut back
Is Addiction a Choice?
While the initial decision to use a substance might be voluntary, addiction is not a choice. It’s a medical condition—just like asthma or diabetes—that requires treatment, support, and ongoing care.
The Good News: Recovery Is Possible
Addiction is treatable. With the right support system, tools, and treatment approach, many people go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives in recovery.
If you’re unsure whether you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, reach out to us at Northview Wellness, we can help you navigate this often complicated healthcare arena.
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