Drug addiction can affect and harm anyone. At Victory, we see far too often the negative effects that drug addiction can have – not just on the user, but on their friends and family too. On Long Island, the crisis has increased dramatically over recent years. We opened our first location in 2018, and we now operate five thriving locations across Long Island. Our continued growth and success confirm that there is an abundance of local residents that are suffering with addiction. It is important for their friends and family members to understand what exactly addiction is, and how it can affect the user both physically and mentally.
What is drug addiction? It can be defined as a compulsive usage and abuse of drugs such as alcohol, hard drugs, or prescription drugs, despite the negative consequences that result from this usage. Drug addiction generally develops over time, and becomes a long-term condition. It is categorized as a brain disorder, because drug use and abuse actually change the way the brain operates. For example, changes related to stress, reward, and self-control, all can occur with extended and chronic drug use. If one’s addiction is not properly treated, a resulting death of the user can occur. At Victory, we have helped countless patients overcome their addictions, saving their lives.
Since the effects of drug use seem so negative, you may be wondering why someone would start using drugs in the first place. There are several reasons for this, involving a need to feel good and better, to help with performance (such as improved focus), or simply because the user was pressured into trying the drugs. Certain drugs can create feelings of pleasure. For example, using cocaine can cause feelings of increased energy and self-confidence. Drug use can also help diminish unwanted feelings of stress and depression. Other drugs, such as stimulants, can help students with their focus on school work. Additionally, peer pressure can cause someone, who might otherwise not try drugs, to begin using.
You may be thinking to yourself that this all sounds positive, so why should people not use drugs? Drug addiction can have a number of negative health effects. Firstly, as you use the drug more frequently, you will notice that you may need to take the drug more often, just to feel like your normal self. Additionally, many of these drugs may be purchased “on the street” and contain deadly ingredients mixed in, such as fentanyl. As a result, there is a direct and strong relationship between drug abuse and overdoses. Even moderate drug use can severely put you at an increased risk of overdosing. Extended drug use can physically and chemically alter the brain, leading to extremely negative health damage.
If you or someone you know is suffering with an addiction to drugs or alcohol, Victory Recovery Partners would like to help. We’re a network of five addiction and recovery centers on Long Island, New York. Our unique business model sets us apart from our competition, as we have all services located under one roof. This includes wellness, behavioral health, MAT, and psychiatric services, providing the best care possible to our patients. Our Farmingville location is now offering Methadone as a treatment method. There is no waitlist to become a patient in the Methadone program, and same-day appointments are available. Please visit our website www.victoryrp.com to learn more.
