Understanding Addiction
Self-Test
Info and Facts
What is Addiction?
What is Substance Abuse Treatment?
Additional Sources
We at Jackson Recovery Centers believe addictions are diseases from which people can and do recover. The following information can be used to help you better understand the disease of addiction.
Self-Test
Are you worried that you or someone you know might have a problem? These confidential self-help tests are designed to help you determine if your suspicions are founded.
Back to Top
Info and Facts
Use these links to find more information about addictive behaviors and substances including symptoms, short-term and long-term effects, and statistics.
Alcohol
Cocaine
Eating Disorders
Ecstasy
Gambling
Marijuana
Methamphetamines
Prescription Drugs
Tobacco
Back to Top
What is Addiction?
Addiction is a complex illness. The path to addiction begins with using an addictive substance (i.e. drugs, alcohol, etc.) or participating in an addictive behavior (i.e. gambling). Over time, a person's ability to choose not to take that substance or participate in that behavior is compromised. This in large part is a result of the effects of prolonged substance use (or behavior) on brain functions. Addiction, therefore, is a compulsive, physical and psychological craving that develops into a dependency even in the face of negative consequences. The disease of addiction is a chronic and progressive brain disease.
People who do not have an addiction sometimes do not understand why people with addictions can't just "use a little willpower" to stop. However, addiction has nothing to do with willpower. People suffering from an addiction are in the grip of a powerful "craving," or uncontrollable need, which overrides their ability to stop. This need can be as strong as the need for food or water.
We believe that abuse and addiction are on a continuum and degrees of severity exist in a dynamic state. We also believe that abuse and addiction can successfully be treated and the person returned to productive life. We believe that each individual and his or her problems present a unique circumstance and demands an individualized clinical intervention. We match individual need to clinical approach to create the best prognosis for recovery.
Back to Top
What is Substance Abuse Treatment?
Download Informational Booklet
Back to Top
Additional Sources
Use these links to access other helpful and informative web sites.
Alcoholics Anonymous Website
Sioux City/Surrounding Area AA, NA, GA Meetings www.aa-iowa.org, www.na-iowa.org
Iowa Resources
National Resources
Studies and Reports
Educational Resources
Back to Top
|
