Drug Facts
Learn about the different types of drugs and their effects and addiction.
What is a drug?
A drug is anything a person puts into their body that affects the brain, mood, thought, and perception. There are many kinds of drugs. Some are illegal, such as methamphetamine, heroin, or cocaine. Others are legal, such as alcohol, prescription drugs and over-the- counter medications, and even household products like aerosol sprays, glue, or cleaning fluid.
Read more about different types of drugs: www.drugabuse.gov/infofacts
What is Addiction?
There are many different definitions of addiction. But the experts seem to agree that someone who is addicted to drugs feels a need to use the substance — over and over again. In fact, abusers of certain drugs, such as heroin, can feel sick — literally — if they do not have the drug in their bodies. Addicted people continue to use substances even after the drugs have caused problems for them. Even big problems, like losing children or families, friends, jobs, or homes.
As addiction or drug dependence develops, users tend to increase their consumption of the drug —larger amounts, longer binge periods, or shorter intervals between uses. Many addicted people say they want to cut back on their use, and may even try to stop using. But addiction changes the way the brain works, and stopping without special help can be nearly impossible. Ultimately, addicted individuals spend most of their time and energy in pursuit of the drugs… consuming the drugs… and, if they are lucky, recovering from drug use.
Denial
Not every drug abuser is aware of the need to stop using. In fact, experts say that one common characteristic of addiction is denial. Users do not admit that their drug use is a problem. They either blame their use on someone else, or claim they can stop any time they want. Drug abuse is often thought of as a symptom of a bigger set of problems. Many people in drug treatment are also trying to overcome low self-esteem, feelings of despair, tattered relationships, and other issues.