Best Addiction Psychiatrist in Himachal Pradesh – Dr. Deepti Munshi Thussu
Addiction is a disease in which the use of a substance (Alcohol, Tobacco, Heroin, Cannabis, etc) becomes the main driving force in a person (addicts life). It is not just a habit.
When a person gets hooked (dependent) on a substance there are certain biochemical and neural changes which occur in his brain (especially the reward center). Often we think that to come out of addiction the person (addict) requires some willpower.
However, only if we understand the Disease Model of Addiction (how actually the brain is rewired) on continuous and regular use of a substance (drug) we actually understand the right approach to treatment.
The following patterns of substance use indicate that one is heading towards Dependence (Addiction).
- A strong desire or sense of compulsion to take the substance (drug).
- Inability or difficulty in controlling the use of a substance.
- Certain physical/psychological symptoms (psychological withdrawal state) when substance use has decreased or stopped. Many patients use the substance to avoid withdrawal symptoms. For example continuous use of alcohol to get better sleep after years of regular use.
- Gradually increasing the dose of the substance are required to achieve effects on produced by lower doses.
- Neglect of other activities/interests/pleasures.
- The person persists with substance use in spite of overtly harmful consequences. Example: Harm to the liver through excessive drinking, depressive mood states or aggressive behavior due to substance use.
Treatment of Addiction
It requires both medication(pharmacotherapy), counseling, and psychotherapy.
Involvement of family (family therapy and family intervention programmes) improve the treatment results.
