In May, we heard from one of our Peer Advisory Council members, Sarah, on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.peers.net/2024/05/20/what-it-feels-like-loving-a-family-member-with-addiction/">loving a family member with addiction</a>. We wanted to expand a little bit on that article, talk about how addictions are related to the brain, and talk about specific resources you can use if you or a family member is struggling with an addictive brain.&nbsp;<h2>Understanding the Brain and Addiction</h2>Addiction is a pretty broad term when you think about it. There is a lot someone could be addicted to, such as alcohol or drugs. But addiction can also take different forms, such as gaming, gambling, or shopping. The word addiction is also used pretty casually, for example, “I’m addicted to chocolate.” But what does a diagnosis of addiction actually mean?The National Institute on Drug Misuse defines addiction as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive substance seeking and use despite adverse consequences. Addiction is considered a disorder because it relates to the part of the brain that controls addiction so some people may be at a higher risk of addiction than others.The brain and addictions can have profound effects not only on individuals but also on their families and communities. For individuals, it often leads to severe mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, as well as physical health problems that can jeopardize their well-being. As we learned from Sarah, families may experience significant strain. Ultimately, addiction creates a ripple effect, impacting not just the person struggling, but also all those around them.<h2>Signs of Addiction</h2>Now that we know the definition of addiction and an addictive brain, we can consider what that looks like from day to day. Below, we outlined some symptoms of addiction<h3>Symptoms of Addiction:</h3><ul><li>Inability to stop</li><li>Increased tolerance</li><li>Intense focus on substance or activity</li><li>Lack of control</li><li>Health issues and personal problems</li><li>Withdrawal</li></ul>All of these symptoms are associated with how a person’s brain has come to rely on the substance or activity. Our brains are what power addiction and make some more susceptible to addiction than others. This might sound like addiction is inevitable for those of us who are more susceptible, but that’s not true. There are lots of different ways to get help if you or someone you love is struggling with addiction.&nbsp;<h2>How to Get Help</h2>If you or your <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://blog.peers.net/2024/05/20/what-it-feels-like-loving-a-family-member-with-addiction/">family member is struggling with addiction</a>, there are a few places you can find help for your mental health.&nbsp;Talk to your Doctor: Your primary care provider can tell you more about how to get help, either with your own addiction or with a family member. They can direct you to a mental health provider in your area and make you aware of different addiction facilities nearby.&nbsp;Find a Therapist: Therapy can help with the mental health challenges associated with addiction. Whether you or a family member struggles with addiction, a therapist can help talk through your experiences and hurdles.&nbsp;&nbsp;Peer Support: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://peers.net/">Peer support</a> is a great option for those who are looking for advice, emotional tools, and empathy from someone who has also experienced addiction or had a family member experience addiction. You can check out our amazing list of peer supporters <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://peers.net/peer-supporters">here!</a>Seeking help for an addictive brain is a courageous and vital step toward recovery and a healthier life. Acknowledging the need for support demonstrates strength and self-awareness, essential components of the healing process. Professional treatment provides tools and strategies to overcome challenges, fostering a sense of community and understanding, and target how addiction is a brain disease. Remember, asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a powerful commitment to change and personal growth.<h2>Addiction Resources</h2>We also wanted to put together a list of resources you can look through if you or someone you love is struggling with addiction.&nbsp;<h3>For You</h3><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.samhsa.gov/">Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline">Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/">National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://nida.nih.gov/">National Institute on Drug Abuse</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://addictionresource.com/">Addiction Resource Treatment Finder</a></li></ul><h3>For a Family Member</h3><ul><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://store.samhsa.gov/product/family-therapy-can-help-people-recovery-mental-illness-or-addiction/sma15-4784">Information on Family Therapy from SAMHSA</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://nacoa.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Its-Not-Your-Fault-NACoA.pdf">Information for Teens with Parents who Struggle with Addiction</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://store.samhsa.gov/product/what-substance-abuse-treatment-booklet-families/sma14-4126">Substance Abuse Treatment Information for Families</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://americanaddictioncenters.org/rehab-guide/addiction-guide-for-family-members">American Addiction Center Information for Families</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.samhsa.gov/families">SAMHSA Information for Families</a></li></ul>The above information is helpful in understanding how addiction can impact the individual and their families. This is why getting help is so important- it will benefit the individual and those they love.&nbsp;<h2>You Are Not Alone</h2>If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. There are resources, organizations, and people that are here for you and are willing to help. Sometimes, the biggest barrier to getting help is just asking! We believe in you and we are here for you.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Hannah Johns

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