Many people only think of physical needs and conditions when they think about health care. However, mental health is just as important. Addiction is a mental disorder that’s often misunderstood. Many affected individuals might avoid seeking treatment because of the negative stigma surrounding the condition. Here’s what you should know about this disorder to better seek help or support those around you.

What Addiction Means

Addiction is a chronic brain disorder. It impacts how the brain views rewards, motivations, and memories, causing a person to seek more stimulation from an activity or substance that is harmful to them. This is commonly seen with alcohol and drugs, but it can also manifest with activities like gambling. 

What to Look For

A major sign of addiction is the compulsive use of a substance or participation in a harmful activity. Enjoying a cocktail once in a while or visiting a casino with some friends is fine. It becomes a problem when the person neglects other responsibilities, relationships, or important aspects of their life in favor of their addiction.

Affected individuals often appear to lack control. They might find it hard to have a good time without drinking alcohol, or they might have tried to quit before and were unsuccessful.

How It’s Treated 

Since addiction is a health issue, seeking support from medical providers is often beneficial. Each case is different, but alcohol and drug addiction often require medication management or treatment planning to reduce dependency and support long-term recovery. There is no cure for addiction, so lifetime support and continued treatment are necessary for leading a healthy life.

If you or a loved one requires professional health care support for addiction, contact Tug River Health Association in Gary, WV. The medical center has served residents across McDowell and Wyoming counties since 1976. They provide a wide array of health care options, including emergency medical care, diabetic assistance, and dentistry. Visit the website to see a full list of options. To request more information, call (304) 448-2101.