For many what starts as recreational or experimental drug use, can rapidly turn into a compulsive and unstoppable dependency. Drugs are chemicals that alter the brain’s reward system by flooding the circuit with dopamine and can drive the compulsive drug abuse that marks addiction.

Drug addiction affects the lives of people from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Addiction among the affluent occurs for many of the same reasons that other classes of people become addicted. Issues like genetic predisposition, mental illness, and stress affect people in every class of society.

Yet, studies show that there is a direct prevalence between alcohol and drug abuse in relation to lower, middle, and upper class.

For instance, heroin use is growing all throughout America, affecting larger numbers of upper-income people as well as more women and non-Hispanic whites. Experts tie the growth to the widespread use of opiate painkillers, such as OxyContin and Vicodin. As the government works to crack down on the non-medical use of prescription drugs, they become more expensive and harder to find. In many instances, addicted individuals are switching from prescription pills to heroin for a cheaper, easier high.

Signs of Drug Addiction

Whatever the reason a person starts taking drugs, tolerance and dependency can develop quickly, before the user even realizes the pattern of addiction taking hold. When tolerance becomes a full-blown addiction, it can be extremely difficult to stop the pattern of abuse.

Physical symptoms such as:

• Bloodshot or glazed eyes
• Dilated or constricted pupils
• Abrupt weight changes
• Bruises, infections, or other physical signs at the drug’s entrance site on the body
• Dental decay

Behavioral symptoms like:

• Increased aggression or irritability
• Changes in attitude/personality
• Lethargy
• Depression
• Sudden changes in a social group
• Dramatic changes in habits and/or priorities
• Financial problems
• Involvement in criminal activity

The drug itself can alter the brain’s ability to focus and form coherent thoughts, depending on the substance.

What are the effects of drug addiction?

If left untreated for long, drug addiction can result in diminished health, job loss, the estrangement of loved ones or potential physical harm to themselves. While drugs may offer short-term relief, extended drug use only aggravates an individual’s problems, since the root of the issues is never addressed.

Drug addiction can lead to a number of mental and physical disorders. Left untreated, uncontrolled drug use will persist despite its overwhelming and often demoralizing consequences on individuals and their families.

When addicts recognize their unhealthy, unhappy condition — and see the impact their drug use has had on others — many seek help.

The Meadows can Help You Recover from Drug Addiction

If you think that someone you love is addicted to drugs, it’s important to seek professional treatment for recovery. At The Meadows, we understand the seriousness of drug addiction. Our drug addiction treatment options range from detoxification to an intensive, inpatient psychotherapeutic program that addresses the symptoms and causes of addiction.

Our expert staff is trained to help people overcome their addiction in a safe and nurturing environment. To learn more, please contact 800-244-4949. All calls are kept strictly confidential.