Addiction Is a Complex, Chronic Disease
We all know people who think that substance abusers simply lack will power or that they remain addicts because they choose not to quit. This theory is incorrect. Addiction is a disease that is very difficult to control, regardless of its harmful effects. Repeated drug and alcohol use affects the brain’s “reward circuit,” making it harder and harder to quit over time — no matter how much the addict wishes to stop. That’s why Buena Vista Health and Recovery Centers extends their compassionate and expert care to a diverse range of individuals, recognizing that addiction is a complex and chronic disease that affects people from all walks of life. Our commitment to healing encompasses various specialized treatment programs tailored to address the unique needs of those seeking recovery.
Who Buena Vista Helps:
- Adults and Adolescents:
- Buena Vista Health and Recovery Centers provide dedicated programs for both adults and adolescents struggling with addiction. Our age-specific approach ensures that the unique challenges faced by different age groups are addressed with precision and empathy.
- Men and Women:
- Understanding the distinct factors that contribute to addiction in men and women, Buena Vista offers gender-specific treatment programs. These programs recognize the importance of tailored approaches to address the diverse biological, social, and emotional aspects of recovery.
- Individuals with Co-Occurring Disorders:
- Buena Vista recognizes the prevalence of co-occurring disorders, where addiction intersects with mental health issues. Our integrated treatment approach addresses both substances use disorders and mental health conditions simultaneously, fostering comprehensive healing.
- Those Affected by Opioid Dependency:
- In response to the opioid epidemic, Buena Vista Health and Recovery Centers have specialized programs to help individuals struggling with opioid dependency. Our comprehensive approach combines medical interventions, therapeutic modalities, and ongoing support to guide individuals towards sustained recovery.
- People Facing Alcohol Addiction:
- Our alcohol addiction treatment center provides a structured and supportive environment for those grappling with alcohol dependence. The program is designed to address the physical and psychological aspects of alcohol addiction, fostering a path towards lasting sobriety.
- Individuals with Cocaine, Heroin, and Prescription Drug Addiction:
- Tailored programs at Buena Vista are available for individuals’ battling addiction to substances such as cocaine, heroin, and prescription drugs. The multidisciplinary team employs evidence-based therapies and individualized care plans to address the specific challenges associated with each substance.
Understanding Addiction as a Complex, Chronic Disease:
Addiction is a complex and chronic disease that goes beyond the mere misuse of substances. It is characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. Here’s why addiction is considered a complex and chronic disease:
- Biological Factors:
- Genetic predispositions and other biological abnormalities contribute to an individual’s vulnerability to addiction. These factors play a crucial role in the development and progression of the disease.
- Environmental Influences:
- Social, economic, and environmental factors, including exposure to trauma, peer pressure, and socioeconomic status, significantly impact the likelihood of developing an addiction. The complexity lies in the intricate interplay of these influences.
- Psychological Components:
- Mental health conditions and psychological factors contribute to the complexity of addiction. Individuals may turn to substances as a means of coping with trauma, stress, or underlying mental health disorders.
- Neurological Changes:
- Chronic substance use induces profound changes in the brain’s structure and function. These alterations result in a heightened craving for the substance and a diminished ability to control its use, marking addiction as a chronic condition with neurological underpinnings.
- Relapse Risk:
Addiction is characterized by a high risk of relapse, even after a period of abstinence. The chronic nature of the disease means that individuals may require ongoing support and management to maintain long-term recovery.
Why Do Some People Become Addicted?
There is no definitive answer yet to this question. However, researchers know that a combination of factors may contribute to a person’s risk for addiction. These include:
- Genetic abnormalities and other biological factors
- Presence of mental disorders
- Social environment including peer pressure and a high level of stressors
- General quality of life, including economic factors
- Childhood traumas such as physical and mental abuse
- Lack of parental guidance
- Age at which drug or alcohol use begins
- Addictive personality characterized by impulsive behavior, non-conformity and risk-taking
- Co-occurring conditions such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder
Buena Vista Health and Recovery Centers acknowledge the intricacies of addiction and approach it as a chronic disease that requires personalized and sustained care. By addressing the biological, environmental, and psychological aspects of addiction, our programs strive to guide individuals towards a path of lasting recovery, acknowledging the multifaceted nature of this challenging condition.
Addiction Can Be Treated Successfully
No cure has been found yet for addiction, but it can be managed through professional medical treatment and long-term therapy. Relapsing is always a risk after treatment and recovering addicts must be on guard throughout their entire lives to prevent a relapse.
Buena Vista helps patients get through the initial detox process and provides several types of therapy to help achieve and maintain lifelong sobriety. We customize treatment plans for each patient based on his or her addictions and risk factors. No matter who you are or how you became addicted, our staff is here to help!
