There are many different addictive substances out there. These include alcohol, hard drugs, prescription medication, and even things such as caffeine that aren’t considered as dangerous but are still quite addictive. The type of substance abuse treatment a person needs is often determined by what substance they were using. If they were using one of the most addictive drugs out there, they are likely to need more intensive addiction treatment in Atlanta in order to overcome their addiction. Here are some of the drugs that researchers have determined are the most addictive and what people can do to overcome them.
The Most Addictive Drug: Heroin
Heroin is the most addictive drug known today. Someone who uses this opiate can become fully addicted after trying it once. According to studies, one out of every four people who use heroin for the first time become addicted immediately. Heroin is also very deadly. Unlike other drugs, where overdose amounts are much higher than the amount needed to get high, the overdose level of heroin is only about five times that. This means it’s very easy to take a lethal amount.
Cocaine
Cocaine is also very addictive. It affects the amount of dopamine in the brain and rewrites the neural pathways that control the feelings of reward and satisfaction. After a short time using cocaine, the user no longer feels good from doing anything other than the drug. It’s estimated that as many as 20 million people in the world abuse cocaine on a regular basis. While it’s not as addictive as heroin, still about one out of every five people who try the drug become addicted to it.
Downers
Downers or barbiturates include a number of different drugs that help people sleep or deal with anxiety. However, when abused, they create a sense of euphoria. They’re also addictive, both physically and psychologically. Abusing downers can also lead to death. Taking too much of one of these drugs can actually stop the respiratory system.
Nicotine
Nicotine may not usually be put in the same category as heroin, cocaine, and other hard drugs, but it is an addictive drug nonetheless. It’s also deadly because heavy smoking leads to lung cancer and other health dangers. Unfortunately, since it’s not seen as a hard drug, it’s not as regulated. Still, over two-thirds of people who have used nicotine products say they have felt dependent on them, which is just another way of saying they were addicted.
Alcohol
While it’s also not considered a drug, alcohol is an incredibly addictive substance that many people abuse. The damage it can do to both mind and body can be deadly and often leaves the user with long-term, permanent health conditions. Alcohol, though legal, is the leading cause of over three million deaths every year.
Overcoming Addiction
It can be difficult to overcome addiction to any of these substances, even nicotine. When someone is addicted to heroin, cocaine, alcohol, or any other drug, they need help. That’s why Good Landing is here. A drug rehab center that provides faith-based addiction treatment services which help addicts regain control of their lives. We know it’s not easy to overcome addiction, but we have created a program that uses recognized treatment options and has a high success rate. We provide our patients with a customized plan that includes therapy, group sessions, individual counseling, and other treatments. These plans are paired with our faith-based approach that encourages patients to accept the grace and forgiveness offered by God. As Philippians 4:13 states, “through Christ, all things are possible.” That includes overcoming addiction.
Reach Out Today
If you or someone you love is battling addiction, reach out to us today. We can provide you with resources to help open the conversation about treatment and give your loved ones options for getting sober.