Understanding The Nature And Effects Of Addiction

We may not realize it but most of us have experienced certain types of addiction in our lifetime. Although some types of addiction are rather harmless, there are certain types of compulsive cravings that can have devastating to our health and our lives. What is really scary about these compulsive cravings is that it could not be appeased easily. In most cases, the cravings are so intense that the person would do just about anything to satisfy him/herself.

Drug Addiction

Some of the most destructive types of compulsive cravings are those cravings that are induced by drugs and other substances. Some of the most common types of drugs abused by people nowadays include stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, designer drugs and others. Stimulants such as cocaine, amphetamines and methamphetamines are commonly used in most parts of the world.

Since people who are into stimulants often find it difficult to sleep or rest, many of these people also dabble on depressants. Some of the most commonly used depressant drugs such as barbiturates, Phenobarbital, amobarbital and secobarbital. In the recent years, designer drugs such as ecstasy found its way into the American society. Hundreds of Americans are reportedly hooked in this designer drug.

Drugs can have several devastating effects on the person abusing it. The worst part about drug addiction is that drugs can alter the way of thinking of the person. Many people who abuse drugs often suffer severe side effects and some of these side effects can be quite severe. Furthermore, getting off drugs is never easy. Drug addiction is something that is very difficult to shake off that most people who abuse drugs often need to be rehabilitated. Often times, the rehabilitation process can be long and painful. Without the support of the family, a person may not really recover from the effects of drug addiction.

Gambling Addiction

Like drug addiction, gambling can destroy life. According to experts, pathological gamblers find it difficult to control themselves and despite several warnings, these people always head to the gambling house or gamble online. In most cases, pathological gamblers losses not only their money but the people they love as well. Like drug addiction, it is often very difficult for pathological gamblers to give up their habits.

Without therapy and strong support from family members and friends, a gambling addict can face a very bleak and lonely future. In fact, many pathological gamblers become very depressed after losing all his or her money that they become suicidal. Cases of suicides due to gambling debts and losses have been reported in many areas in the country.