What is it?

Addiction occurs when there is (1) a pattern of abuse of a drug, (2) work and life complications as a result of the abuse, (3) tolerance (greater amounts of the drug are required to get “high”), and (4), withdrawal (physical symptoms when not using the drug).

What causes it?

There is good evidence for a genetic predisposition for addiction. But even people without that predisposition can become addicted. Some non-genetic causes include high amounts of stress, a peer group that uses drugs, depression, or abuse. Any of these factors can lead to the decision to use drugs and increase the chance of addiction.

How do you know when someone has it?

The following are warning signs of possible addiction when a young person has not yet admitted usage:

• Relationship problems
• Fatigue
• Red or glazed eyes
• Sudden attitude or mood changes
• Poor school attendance or performance
• Immaturity
• Loss of interest in school or other activities that once were enjoyable
• Resistance to discipline
• Lasting cough
• Reduced coping ability
• Social withdrawal
• Dependent behavior
• Secrecy about friends, actions, and possessions

When usage has been admitted, some additional symptoms are as follows:

• Denial of a problem
• They feel they need the drug in order to function normally
• Need for greater amounts of the drug
• Physical symptoms when not using the drug

What can happen to people with an addiction?

There is no cure for addiction. In the absence of treatment, the symptoms become increasingly worse and more damaging. The drive to obtain drugs can lead to criminal behavior and other major problems. The deterioration of health ultimately can lead to death. If the individual does receive treatment, both the behaviors and the health can usually be improved substantially.

How do you help a loved one suffering from an addiction?

Treatment is delivered in a variety of settings -- residential, inpatient, and ambulatory -- and will include total abstinence from the abused drug. An initial step is often the progressive withdrawal of the drug, or detoxification. The individual will likely receive therapy individually, in a group setting, and with the family. Medications can also be used to minimize the intense feelings of desire for the drug. Education about the drug, addiction in general, and coping behaviors can also be a key component to recovery. An effective support group is usually cultivated to help ensure long-term abstinence.

How CERTS helps those with an addiction

CERTS therapists have extensive experience in successfully treating adolescents with drug addictions through detoxification, appropriate medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modification. This success if augmented by the CERTS formula of balancing outstanding clinical therapy, experiential therapy, and education, along with appropriate medical care.

Experiential therapy programs (such as equine therapy) offered at the facilities have also proven helpful. A fun and challenging academic education enhances self-esteem and encourages students to rediscover the joy of learning while they clinically stabilize. To learn more about which CERTS program can best offer the help you may require, please contact a CERTS admissions counselor at 801-755-8802.

Learn More About Drug Abuse

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
New York Presbyterian Hospital
American Psychological Association