Drug relapse is the return to drug use after a period of abstinence. It is a significant issue in addiction recovery, affecting individuals who have undergone addiction treatment. According to “Drugs, Brains, and Behavior. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration also states that about 85% of individuals relapse and return to drug use…
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Lexapro withdrawal refers to the physical and psychological symptoms experienced when discontinuing the antidepressant Lexapro (escitalopram). These symptoms occur due to the brain adjusting to the absence of the medication, which has altered its serotonin levels. According to “Going Off Antidepressants” by Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School (2018), about 20% of people who stop…
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Endorphins are naturally occurring neuropeptides produced in the brain that act as neurotransmitters. They are often referred to as the body’s natural painkillers and mood enhancers. Endorphins bind to opioid receptors in the brain to reduce pain and produce feelings of euphoria. There are different types of endorphins, but beta-endorphins are the most popular because…
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Neurotransmitter imbalance refers to the disruption in the normal levels of neurotransmitters, usually due to substance abuse. Abuse of certain substances disrupts the brain’s natural chemical balance, perpetuating the cycle of addiction. According to “Neurochemical Mechanisms of Addiction” by John H. Krystal, Neuropsychopharmacology (2009), addiction significantly alters neurotransmitter levels in the brain, often increasing dopamine…
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Fentanyl addiction is a persistent condition marked by the uncontrollable use and deep reliance on fentanyl, an opioid, despite adverse outcomes. This condition includes physical dependence and psychological cravings, making cessation challenging without intervention. Signs of fentanyl dependency include strong cravings for the drug, an inability to regulate its use, and continued use despite harmful…
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Xanax addiction is exhibited by the habitual and uncontrollable use of Xanax, a type of benzodiazepine, even when it causes harm. It involves both physical dependence and mental cravings, making it tough for individuals to quit without expert assistance. Xanax addiction indicators include strong urges for the drug, difficulty managing its use, and persistence despite…
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Cocaine addiction is a health condition defined by uncontrollable use and dependency on cocaine despite its adverse effects. Individuals develop strong cravings and reliance on the drug, making it challenging to stop. Signs of cocaine addiction include heightened tolerance, powerful cravings, and withdrawal symptoms in the absence of the drug. Behavioral indicators include secretiveness, neglect…
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Heroin addiction is a chronic disorder shown by intense and compulsive heroin-seeking behavior and use despite its harmful consequences on the user. It involves a physical and mental dependence on heroin, a highly addictive opioid. Signs of heroin dependency include frequent drowsiness, sudden weight loss, and needle marks on the skin. Behavioral changes such as…
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Stimulant addiction is a dependency, immense need, or urge to use substances that significantly increase activity in the brain and nervous system despite the harmful consequences they pose. These substances include common drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine and prescription medications such as ADHD treatments. The evidence of stimulant addiction includes increased energy and alertness, reduced…
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Steroid addiction is shown by an intense compulsion or craving to use anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) despite the harm it wrought to one’s health, social life, or psychological state. Individuals using steroids often consume these synthetic substances to enhance their athletic and improve physical appearance. Over time, the body’s dependency on these drugs leads to addiction.…
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