Frequently asked questions about drug addiction
What are the effects of drug addiction?
Drug addiction is characterised by a compulsive craving for a drug, despite the negative consequences of drug-taking. Prolonged drug use affects the way the brain functions, and the brain can become dependent on a drug to relax, sleep or keep anxiety at bay.
Is drug addiction the same for everyone?
While all drugs are potentially harmful, different people have different tolerance levels and can be more at risk of developing a drug addiction or overdosing, depending on biological and psychological factors. Some drugs are considered more addictive than others, particularly heroin and benzodiazepines.
How can you tell if someone is an addict?
An addict is someone who compulsively continues to use drugs, despite the negative consequences of losing their job, going into debt or experiencing personal problems. They may need to take drugs to get going in the morning or control their nerves, and may react negatively if their drug use is criticised.
What are the signs of drug addiction?
The symptoms of drug abuse can vary, according to the drug and the individual. Someone who smokes marijuana might have a chronic cough and bloodshot eyes, while drug users who inject may have needle marks on their arms or behind their knees. Nose bleeds and nasal problems are experienced by drug users who inhale drugs. All drugs can cause symptoms such as insomnia, irritability, lethargy, poor co-ordination and altered behaviour.
What happens during the detoxification process?
Detoxification is the removal of a drug and its toxins from the body, and is often the first step in a drug treatment program. Withdrawal from drugs needs to be medically supervised, and medications are used to ease the symptoms. The process is ideally accompanied by therapy, as removal of toxins alone is unable to bring an end to addiction. The effective treatment programs offered by Wesley Hospital Ashfield and Wesley Hospital Kogarah manage the severe symptoms of withdrawal. We work with you to establish support structures that help ensure ongoing rehabilitation and recovery from drug addiction.
The symptoms of withdrawal vary according to the type of drug and can include insomnia, diarrhoea, vomiting, cold, pain and general depression lasting for several weeks.
How do we treat drug addiction?
Wesley Hospital Ashfield and Wesley Hospital Kogarah’s highly regarded treatment programs involve rehabilitation for both in-patients and day patients. Following a thorough assessment, the medically managed detoxification process includes group therapy, individual therapy and the use of external support groups.
