Did you know that heroin is made from the poppy plant? Not that there is a lot of illegal heroin production happening in Lancaster, but like all cities in the U.S., Lancaster has its share of drug and alcohol abuse. If you know someone struggling with substance abuse dependency and would like to break free from the addiction, give us a call!

Is Addiction a Disease?

Yes. Addiction is a disease. The brain actually rewires itself to make an abuser continue their abuse. The brain also re-prioritizes substance abuse over other functions like eating and sleeping. There is a psychological component to addiction that predisposes some people to develop an addiction. The pain and discomfort of withdrawal further propel drug and alcohol abuse.

How Do I Get Drugs or Alcohol Out of My System?

Detoxification treatment, or detox, cleanses the body from the toxins in drugs and alcohol to prepare that patient for rehabilitation.

What Are the Signs of Addiction?

There isn't one specific indicator of addiction. However, there are several things to look for that are tell-tale signs of addiction. One of these is sickness. If a person feels sick when they stop using a substance, it can be a sign they have developed an addiction. Another sign is increased level of use. If it takes using more of a substance to reach the same high, the person may be addicted. Other signs are changes in behavior, poor work performance, and hiding their substance use from friends and loved ones.

When you complete your rehab, consider enrolling in aftercare. Aftercare transitions patients back to the real world, while helping them avoid relapse. Also consider joining 12-step and support groups. 12-steps help recovering addicts by having them "work" a series of chronological steps designed to hold them accountable for their choices, make amends to those they may have harmed, and to call upon the support of others or a higher power to overcome their addiction. Group meetings like AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) enable recovering addicts to meet peers who are struggling with the same affliction. People find support and healing through their sharing, as well as friendship and mentors. You can also find a sponsor at group meetings and in 12-step programs who will personally help coach you on the path to recovery.