Even in an area as picturesque and prosperous as Des Moines, the disease of addiction still grabs hold of and devastates many lives. Addiction is a mental illness that requires professional treatment to stop using and stay abstinent in the long run. If you or someone you know suffers from addiction, reach out and get the help necessary today. Drug overdose is the leading cause of preventable, accidental death in this country, ahead of all others, including traffic accidents and firearm related deaths. We can help answer any questions you have and walk you through the admissions process. We are ready and willing whenever you are. Call us at (866) 578-7471 .

What Signs Indicate an Addiction?

The possible signs of addiction are numerous and wide-ranging. Signs of substance abuse will depend of the substance of abuse, as well as many other factors. It can be difficult to determine if someone is abusing substances from an outside perspective as the signs during the early days of his or her using. Some potential signs to be aware of are withdrawal symptoms, loss of interest in activities, change in social group, lying about use in any aspect, hiding frequency, amount or what is being used, irritability, stealing, changes in appetite, mood, energy level, and many others. If you and are aware of a sudden change in a person in Des Moines, WA, talk to a professional about how best to proceed.

How Does Someone Become Addicted?

Addiction is classified as a mental illness characterized by obsession to use, compulsive drug seeking, continuation of use despite negative consequences, among others. The neural networks involved in stress and reward are permanently damaged in cases of addiction. There are four stages of use, namely experimentation, social use, dangerous use, and addiction. Some people progress through all four stages extremely quickly, whereas others may be heavy users but never progress past phase two or three. There is no way to determine who will become addicted and when. The only way to prevent becoming addicted is not to use in the first place.

12-step programs have proven to be the best method for tackling the vicious symptoms of addiction. Millions of people have stopped using and stayed abstinent with the help of the 12-steps and the guidance and support provided by fellow group members. If you suffer from addiction in Des Moines, WA, find a meeting in your area and get connected to a sober community today.