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What is the dopamine addiction relationship?

Alternative Treatment, Treatment, United States

Background on what a dopamine addiction relationship truly is

  • Dopamine is a strong and addictive neurotransmitter. It is increasingly recognized as a central player in motivation, pleasure and reinforcement of behaviors, thus guiding both adaptive routines and maladaptive, addictive behaviors.
  • In relationships, unhealthy triggers such as overuse of technology or fighting with a partner produce dopamine spikes repeatedly. These highs can erode intimate emotional bonds and create addictive loops.
  • It’s important to identify warning signs of dopamine addiction. These are the dopamine addiction of seeking never-ending novelty and the relationship apocalypse of stonewalling, which can both kill a relationship.
  • Addiction is deeper than a nuisance habit. It involves real neurological changes that make quitting difficult and often require professional support and structured treatment programs available in the United States.
  • Dopamine addiction tends to affect men and women differently. By employing personalized strategies and understanding specific sensitivities, we can improve both treatment and recovery results.
  • Put the emphasis on non-drug dopamine enhancers! Shared experiences, movement, and conscious communication can begin to heal the imbalance and create conditions for intimate, vibrant, lifelong bonds.

Dopamine and Addiction’s Grip

Dopamine and Addiction's Grip
Dopamine and Addiction’s Grip

Addiction proves itself a psychological condition. It is not simply the development of a habit or compulsive behavior. Addiction is a disease that profoundly changes brain function.

Eventually it starts impacting the brain’s ability to feel pleasure and joy, followed by a disruption of essential drives such as learning and motivation. Whether it’s with drugs, alcohol, gambling, social media, or gaming in general, this shift is possible.

The reach of addiction extends far wider than most understand. In the U.S., an estimated 23 million people—almost one in ten—are addicted to alcohol or drugs. Society, stress, and access combined are why addiction rates remain persistently high.

More Than Just Bad Habits

Habits develop with repetition, but addiction is much more profound. A habit is brushing your teeth before bed; addiction is needing that drink or that dopamine hit even though it’s damaging.

The main difference is in the loss of control. Addictions are characterized by compulsions and lack of control. Like all emotional trauma, the toll only compounds with time.

Coupled with addiction’s weighty, guilt- and shame-laden burden, the normal anxieties of daily life become overwhelming challenges.

How The Brain Gets Hijacked

Addiction physically and chemically rewires the brain. Pleasurable behaviors release dopamine to reinforce these behaviors, instructing our brain about what is pleasurable.

Drugs and certain behaviors, on the other hand, cause dopamine to spike—sometimes as much as ten times the usual rate. The brain attempts to counteract this sudden spike by producing less dopamine or decreasing the number of its receptors.

This rewiring cements the cycle: cravings, reduced control, and use despite harm. Because of conditioned learning, even after years of abstinence, old cues can trigger a relapse.

Why “Just Quitting” Is Tough

Overcoming addiction isn’t a matter of willpower. Withdrawal symptoms—like anxiety, fatigue, and mood swings—can make quitting extremely difficult.

These changes in the brain make for intense cravings and psychological hurdles. Triggers can still hijack a person’s brain.

This is one reason why addiction is considered a chronic disease, not just a matter of poor choice.

What is the role of Dopamine in Addiction?

What is the role of Dopamine in Addiction?
What is the role of Dopamine in Addiction?

Dopamine plays a major role in how we form attachments, make connections, and experience pleasure—both to behaviors and to people. In the Bay Area and beyond, social lives increasingly reflect tech-fueled activities, which can lead to unhealthy relationship patterns. This overlap creates a unique context of dopamine’s effect on relationships, particularly in the realm of love addiction.

Dopamine is the star of the brain’s reward system, rewarding behaviors such as eating, exercising, and drug taking, including addictive substances. Its impact goes well beyond these behaviors; it influences the way we connect socially, emotionally react to closeness, and foster or break down healthy relationships.

Dopamine dysregulation can be caused by lifestyle factors, stress, or substance use disorder. These changes disrupt the chemistry of connecting to others and trigger effects of addiction treatment. As dopamine guides us toward rewards, it can draw us into cycles that short circuit authentic connection. In the next few sections, we’ll explain how dopamine impacts addiction and intimate relationships, chronicling the pursuit for both temporary solutions and permanent connections.

1. The Dopamine-Addiction Connection

Dopamine is sometimes referred to as the “feel-good” hormone. Its true influence is in pushing us toward our rewards. Yet it’s this same drive that allows us to create connections.

It is what gets us high on new love, what makes us feel good when we’re held, but it keeps us stuck in patterns of desire. In relationships, dopamine drives us to seek out the highs of love, attention, validation, or even toxic drama. For others, this cycle looks like an ongoing need to chase novelty or validation, preventing them from feeling comfortable in more peaceful, stable relationships.

Soon, individuals begin to desire these dopamine-induced “hits.” This pattern is seen in drug addiction, where relationships and other facets of life become increasingly unstable, as they are only as good as the next emotional reward.

This cycle of pleasure-seeking and dependency can lead individuals to feel empty or isolated, particularly when the dopamine high subsides. Rather than developing a consistent, predictable foundation of trust, the partnership might turn into emotional highs and lows.

Partners might find themselves locked in a loop: seeking new thrills or emotional spikes, then feeling let down by the routine of daily life. This same dynamic plays out on the friendship side as well. It can poison relationships as one or both partners start to rely on the next high rather than investing in their lasting relationship.

2. How Dopamine Builds Up Tolerance

The more often this happens, the more the brain has to adjust to cope with an excessive amount of dopamine. This is called tolerance. When the pleasure or excitement of a relationship becomes habitual, the brain begins to crave even more.

It requires more intense experiences to reach the same threshold of pleasure. So individuals begin to pursue riskier, more severe experiences. They want an avalanche of texts, a parade of gestures, or a knockdown-dragout fight to get back to that honeymoon phase high.

This increasing tolerance can destroy fulfillment in a marriage. What used to be exciting or relaxing is suddenly boring. Others react by seeking out replacement mates or creating drama to try to trigger another dopamine hit.

This can lead to a vicious cycle. The quest for novelty or drama frequently wins out over authentic connection or nurturing. The long-term price paid for this behavior is usually frustration and a feeling that relationships just never seem to be “enough.

3. Quick Hits vs. Lasting Bonds

Short, predictable bursts of dopamine—perhaps a flirty text, a social media like, or a surprise date—are much more rewarding. When our relationships are solely based on these quick hits, the emotional connections start to dissipate.

While these quick hits give us the feeling of social bonding, they lack the depth needed to create lasting trust and intimacy. For instance, couples who only prioritize shared exhilaration may struggle in managing mundanity or stress as a unit.

Deep relationships develop over time, constant support, vulnerability and shared experiences. Though these aren’t guaranteed to spark the same dopamine rushes, they do lay the foundation for the real closeness we all crave.

In the Bay Area’s rapid-fire, tech culture, the lure of instant gratifications is overwhelming. Studies indicate that developing stronger connections contributes to greater sustained happiness and relationship quality over time.

4. Dopamine, Rewards, and Relationship Joy

Whether it’s the joy of laughter, the excitement of collaboration, or the thrill of conquering an obstacle, those positive experiences flood both partners’ brains with dopamine. These small, positive interactions build our sense of relationship with one another and buffer our bonds against stress.

Even mundane tasks, such as cooking dinner or climbing Mount Tamalpais in Marin, instill a feeling of collective reward. Doing volunteer work together can help build that connection as well!

You see, mutual celebration and support increase dopamine, too. Simple things, such as acknowledging your partner’s success at work or expressing appreciation for something they did, can create moments of joy and deepen your connection.

When only one partner enjoys these rewards, the relationship is unbalanced. It’s an even greater letdown when those positive experiences are few and far between.

5. Unhealthy Cycles: Dopamine Imbalance

Symptoms of dopamine imbalance in relationships can include irritability, restlessness, or increased jealousy. Partners tend to pursue these dopamine-driven highs and they start missing out on the consistent support or emotional safety.

This can create cycles of anger, retreat, or emotional exhaustion. To avoid falling into these cycles, maintain distinct boundaries and prioritize your well-being!

Prioritize shared values over the novelty for novelty’s sake approach. Restoring balance typically involves relearning how to feel content with consistency. It means leaning into the thrill and being aware when the quest for dopamine is leading the relationship astray.

6. Dopamine Highs Fueling Codependency

Other relationships end up being codependent, with both individuals relying on one another for dopamine highs—be it via the chaos, salvation, or ego stroking. This cycle can be difficult to escape, particularly when emotional needs are fulfilled almost exclusively through the other individual.

In codependent relationships, cycles of addiction are commonly maintained, wherein partners enable one another’s toxic behaviors. Encouraging and building independence should be the foundation of any healthy recovery.

This may involve cultivating interests and friendships outside the relationship. It can mean developing personal coping mechanisms, so that the relationship is not the sole source of emotional gratification.

In time this is a mutually pleasing tradeoff. Instead of being swept along by the pursuit of the next dopamine spike, they are fulfilled by one another and by themselves.

7. Your Unique Dopamine Sensitivity

Your unique dopamine sensitivity Everybody’s brain responds to dopamine a little differently. Those who are more sensitive may be more likely to crave excitement or develop cravings as a habit.

Personal history—whether trauma, stress, or early attachment experiences—determines how a person processes dopamine as well. Being aware of your own patterns is key to minimizing risk.

If you notice a tendency to chase highs or struggle with boredom, it’s worth exploring healthier ways to find reward. Knowing about these differences can foster healthier relationships and mitigate some of the back and forth between addiction and disconnection.

Dopamine’s Gendered Addiction Impact

Dopamine operates essentially at the nexus of addiction treatment, as it influences the dopamine reward system, which plays a crucial role in both substance abuse and unhealthy relationships. However, its effects vary widely by gender. It’s a complicated interplay between brain chemistry, biological changes in hormones, and social cues that account for how men and women fall into addictive relationship behaviors. That’s why effective addiction treatment programs must consider not just a person’s biology, but the context of their daily lives.

Men: Dopamine’s Pull in Addiction

Men: Dopamine's Pull in Addiction
Men: Dopamine’s Pull in Addiction

Men tend to suffer from substance-related addictions more frequently. I believe part of this is due to social pressure to be risk-takers or limit-pushers. The male brain, influenced by testosterone, is more likely to demonstrate a connection between dopamine and impulsive behavior.

Men, for instance, are more likely to engage in binge drinking or drug use in order to conform or differentiate themselves. It has been well documented that men enjoy the excitement and payoffs of risky decisions. This pull is frequently connected to the way that dopamine shoots off in their minds.

These practices can accumulate over time. As a result, addiction becomes difficult to escape without treatment that not only tackles the brain’s wiring but society’s expectations.

Women: Dopamine and Withdrawal Differences

Women: Dopamine and Withdrawal Differences
Women: Dopamine and Withdrawal Differences

Women face unique dopamine and withdrawal challenges because hormones such as estrogen affect how their brains process dopamine, particularly in regard to the menstrual cycle. In short, research has concluded women experience more intense cravings and increased withdrawal symptoms as they quit drugs such as cocaine.

Women are more prone to use substances to self-medicate stress or depression, adding another layer of emotion to the recovery process. The brain’s reward system is much more sensitive in women. This increased sensitivity can help elucidate how women are able to foster addictions quicker or more intensely than men.

Different Paths, Same Recovery Goal

Men and women deserve recovery plans that reflect their unique narratives. What’s effective for one might be completely ineffective for the other. When treatment acknowledges these disparities, recovery can happen at a much quicker pace.

Rehabilitation tales reveal that a combination of science and compassion inspires transformation that lasts. This toxic mix wreaks havoc on all women and men alike.

Dopamine Addiction’s Toll on Relationships

Dopamine Addiction's Toll on Relationships
Dopamine Addiction’s Toll on Relationships

Dopamine, one of the principal neurotransmitters in the brain’s reward circuit, influences how individuals connect with each other, experience pleasure, and pursue novelty. In relationships, her role is complicated. It can increase feelings of emotional intimacy; however, when left unchecked, it frequently turns into dependency or obsessive cycles.

Those of us who live in urban digital hubs such as San Francisco often feel the negative effects of these issues in real life. Tech and social media intensify these dopamine triggers, altering the landscape of human connection.

Tech Overload: Supercharging Dopamine

New technologies—smartphones, apps, social media—make it so that dopamine never stops pumping. Each thumbs up or DM increases visibility, but this algorithmic culture of engagement turns meaningful dialogue into a mere mile a minute.

One partner could scroll during dinner rather than engage in conversation or even keep looking at their phone while talking to their partner. Over time, this unrelenting digital commotion obstructs even the simplest of tasks, like being able to concentrate or developing trust.

Cutting down screen time, creating device-free zones, and establishing family tech agreements keep relationships in the real world.

Chasing Excitement, Losing Connection

The excitement addiction’s chase—big dates and grand gestures—often blinds us to the quiet, consistent love. When the desire for novelty becomes automatic, more meaningful connections are pushed to the back burner.

Individuals will choose excitement-seeking over real conversations or common purpose. This can drive wedges between partners and erode emotional support. When more care is given through small, consistent acts, balance and trust can be restored.

Is Conflict Your Dopamine Fix?

Conflict and fighting may be the dopamine trigger. In fact, for many of us, conflict might turn into an addiction, leaving us bored by the absence of drama. This cycle drains your patience and creates a pattern of arguing again and again.

Breaking the cycle requires setting firm boundaries and rational conflict resolution, rather than seeking immediate emotional pleasure.

Mental Strain from Relational Stress

Cognitive depletion from chronic relational stress persists as dopamine addiction continues. As dopamine addiction persists, so does stress on relationships and mental health. Breakups or rejection cause dopamine drops, leading to sadness or withdrawal.

Healing is possible when both the cause and the stress—either through self-care or professional help—are addressed.

Spotting Dopamine-Driven Relationship Issues

Spotting Dopamine-Driven Relationship Issues
Spotting Dopamine-Driven Relationship Issues

Identifying dopamine-driven issues in relationships requires a discerning eye and true self-awareness. In high-tempo metropolitans such as San Francisco, its fast-paced lifestyle and the prevalence of dating apps can be overwhelming. The thrill of new love can get complicated by patterns learned from technology and work.

Dopamine, a key brain chemical, often drives this high. In the beginning it seems like profound love. Long term, it can manifest as fixation or desire for that continuous “high,” which can destroy authentic connections.

Early Red Flags to Watch

  • At worst, compulsive refreshing of messages or social media accounts to see what your partner might be doing.
  • Feeling restless or anxious if messages go unread.
  • Ignoring long-term compatibility for instant excitement.
  • Needing constant validation or attention.
  • Losing interest quickly once the “newness” fades.
  • Overlooking personal needs or boundaries.

Identifying red flags early can prevent minor relationship issues from escalating into major ones. For folks with ADHD, these red flags are exacerbated. Open conversations about emotions, unplugged time, and some genuine internal reflection can go a long way in pumping the brakes.

Friends or mentors can provide outside perspectives before things get knotted up.

Love or Just a Dopamine Rush?

True love is formed over time, brick by brick. A dopamine-driven romance is steamy and speedy. When a partner is more addicted to the thrill than to long-term loyalty, that’s chemistry, not love.

In a healthy love, security trumps excitement. Self-reflection—like asking whether both partners are putting in the same effort—can help identify if it’s true love or just a temporary euphoric high.

When Communication Breaks Down

These dopamine-driven habits can negatively impact communication between couples. When the excitement dissipates, one partner might feel abandoned. The long conversations that were once the norm are now replaced with short texts or one-word replies.

When one starts seeking new highs with someone else, trust is shattered. To counteract this, slow down to hear each other out, ask what you both need, and communicate your boundaries clearly. Truthful language goes a long way in regaining trust, even if you’ve strayed off course.

Healing: Dopamine Dependency Treatment in Thailand

Dopamine is central to how individuals learn behaviors, experience pleasure, and maintain addiction. In Thailand, dopamine dependency treatment takes a broad approach, employing both medical and behavioral methods. Most plans address the underlying issues, such as stress or trauma, through therapy and deep community support.

This section explains the resources – spiritual, mental and physical – that are available for anyone seeking healing from dopamine dependency. Most importantly, it details how each path serves different purposes and needs.

Rebalance Your Brain’s Chemistry

Repairing dopamine function takes baby steps that you can do every day. New, healthier habits—like walking every day, cooking at home, and improving sleep cycles—bring the body’s brain chemistry back into balance.

These foods high in protein, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds are all great allies to help maintain balanced dopamine levels. For folks in cities like San Francisco or New York, group fitness classes or local farmers’ markets offer easy ways to build these habits.

Exercise is a known mood-booster that can help reduce cravings long-term. Mindfulness practices, such as guided meditation or breath work, reduce stress and allow people to become more aware of their triggers. Most people are able to find something through apps or local meditation groups.

These are effective lifestyle changes, but they’re most effective when done alongside professional help.

Thailand Dopamine Dependency Treatment Explored

Treatment Type Approach Example Effectiveness
Medication Dopamine modulation Naltrexone, Buprenorphine Reduces cravings, relapse rates
Therapy Behavioral change CBT, Group Therapy Addresses root causes, builds skills
Support Groups Peer support SMART Recovery, 12-Step Lowers isolation, boosts accountability
Lifestyle Changes Natural dopamine boost Exercise, Nutrition Improves mood, brain health

Therapy, medication, and group support all play an important role. CBT and contingency management are two therapeutic modalities that assist in breaking those patterns.

For patients, some individuals find they respond best to medication, while others thrive in an environment of peer groups. Your doctor or counselor can work with you to create a plan that works best for you as an individual.

Dopamine dependency treatment FAQs

What is dopamine and how does it affect addiction?

What is dopamine and how does it affect addiction treatment? When levels of dopamine are artificially increased, it can encourage addiction, particularly in unhealthy relationships, by making activities or addictive substances seem more pleasurable.

How does dopamine addiction impact romantic relationships?

Dopamine addiction often results in relationship addiction, causing individuals to chase never-ending novelty, which leads to emotional volatility and unpredictable relationship patterns.

Can both men and women experience dopamine addiction the same way?

Can’t both men and women experience dopamine addiction equally. Men could become more susceptible to risk-taking, whereas women could pursue emotional highs.

What are common signs of dopamine-driven relationship issues?

Other warning signs of relationship addiction include obsessive texting, needing constant reassurance, and feeling bored unless there’s drama or chaos in the toxic relationship.

How can someone in the US get help for dopamine addiction?

Treatment involves a combination of therapy, support groups, medication, and lifestyle changes. Specialized addiction treatment programs at many US clinics, like those at We Level Up, provide tailored approaches to restore healthy dopamine levels and address substance abuse impact.

Can social media contribute to dopamine addiction in relationships?

Indeed, the instant gratification of social media can help perpetuate unhealthy relationship patterns, making individuals crave likes and false connections more than genuine romantic love.

Is it possible to recover from dopamine addiction and repair relationships?

Definitely, definitely, definitely. The good news is, with the appropriate addiction treatment and support, individuals can escape the cycle of relationship addiction, recover, and establish healthier, more secure connections.

New Zealand Drug Market for Meth and Cocaine Striving

New Zealand Drug Market for Meth and Cocaine is Thriving

Alternative Treatment, Articles, Australia, Education, International, Treatment, Understanding Addiction

New Zealand Drug Market for Meth and Cocaine Thriving

New Zealand is a beautiful place filled with natural and man-made marvels that can be a delight to behold. However, a sinister shadow has been recently cast over New Zealand. According to the US DEA drug enforcement agency, the New Zealand drug market has become the number one hot spot in the world for both meth and cocaine.

Why the New Zealand Drug Market?

It may seem odd that New Zealand is a hub for the drug industry, but this has a great deal to do with money. Drug sales, the money to be made from sales, have gained the attention of the major cartels in the world. Specifically, the Sinaloa Cartel seems to be targeting the New Zealand borders for drug trade and sales. One bust in particular found 110 kilos of methamphetamines being smuggled into the area in golf cart batteries.

As mentioned, money is a big motivator and New Zealanders pay the price for party drugs. As of 2018, Kiwis paid an average of $360 for a single gram of cocaine. This is about four times what those in America said they paid for the same amount. This is in part due to the smaller population of the area, but strict border control also raises the price. This also drives the rates of meth use as it can be created from items that are easier to obtain in the country. However, for those wanting cocaine, it can be tough and expensive to come by without any assurance that what is sold is safe or pure.

Cocaine Use

While meth may be growing in popularity, cocaine is still a favorite of users in New Zealand. Unfortunately, neither are safe for short or long term use. While cocaine addiction may not be as instantaneous as meth addiction, it can still happen quickly. This is because both have related short term effects that include:

  • Energy
  • Euphoria
  • Extreme sensitivity to sound, touch, and sights
  • Anger
  • Irritability
  • Paranoia
  • Decreased appetite

Someone who is energetic, does not need to eat or sleep, and can seemingly feel things deeply, will not want to stop. The same is true of meth, however, cocaine is a fast acting short term high where as meth tends to stay in the system longer with stronger effects over time.

Long Term Effects of Cocaine and Meth

While the short term effects are not necessarily horrible, the long term effects can be both permanent and deadly. These include:

  • Headaches or migraines
  • Convulsions or seizures
  • Heart attack, disease, or stroke
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Psychological and mood issues
  • Lung damage
  • HIV and Hepatitis (from sharing or reusing needles)
  • Bowel decay
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Loss of smell
  • Nosebleeds (from snorting)

Drug Use

Both meth and cocaine can be snorted, smoked, or injected. While all forms are dangerous, injected either substance puts the user at higher risk. This is especially true for those that share needles as infections are easily passed through the needle. Injection sites can also get infected and cause problems throughout the body that are not easily treated, even if the user does seek treatment. Those using meth are more likely to pick at the skin which spreads the infection further.

Seeking Treatment

New Zealand Drug Market for Meth and Cocaine Striving

Though New Zealand has far from cornered the market for cocaine and methamphetamine purchases or production, there is still a need for proper treatment for those who are addicted. DARA offers an excellent resource for those with any type of addiction. The best part is there are several facilities within Australia. These are located in Sydney, Brisbane, Auckland, and Melbourne.

DARA’s Treatment

DARA is unique in that each individual who enters the in-patient facility is given an individualized treatment plan. While the overall treatment is the same for everyone, the specifics are designed to help each addict in the way they most need.

Mind

This is accomplished with a focus on the mind, body, and spirit for each patient in the affordable, resort style facility. For the mind, the use of cognitive behavioral therapy in group and individual settings. Cognitive behavioral therapy, most often called CBT, helps individuals to trace their thinking to behaviors and feelings. Knowing how certain thoughts lead to specific actions can help an individual break the thought pattern. These are patterns that are often involved in addiction. This is also helpful once a person goes back to their real life as triggers will come up and need to be avoided or the thought patterns around them altered to a healthier action.

DARA can help each individual identify their triggers and thought patterns to lead a healthier life after rehab. To further help heal the mind, DARA offers education classes about addiction so that the basic principles are better understood by the user.

Spirit

As for the spirit, religion is not a part of the DARA rehab program, but time spent in meditation and relaxation is included. Time is set aside daily to simply relax and consider a new life outside of the rehab facility. Learning to relax is an important skill as once the time at rehab has ended, stressful events often lead to relapse. Practicing these techniques can be one way to prevent relapse in the future.

Body

DARA makes physical wellness a priority as well. This comes in different forms that include a personal trainer for each patient and massages that are offered three times a week. Additionally, personalized times of recreation and proper nutrition are provided as a way to help the body heal from the inside out. Addiction tends to take precedence over self-care for the addict. This means the body suffers. This can be extreme with cocaine and meth use in any form. DARA seeks to help rebuild the body so it can continue to heal itself following a rehab stay.

Contact DARA

CLICK HERE to get a free confidential addiction rehabilitation assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone now.

Heavy Drug Use Prevailing in Pacific Nations

Heavy Drug Use Prevailing in Pacific Nations

Alternative Treatment, Articles, Australia, Education, International, Treatment, Understanding Addiction

Heavy Drug Use Prevailing in Pacific Nations

The heavy drug use in the areas of Australia and New Zealand is affecting the smaller Pacific Nations negatively. As drug traffickers transport through the area to reach others that pay high prices for illegal substances like cocaine, an increase in addiction, corruption, and violence has been noted.

Drug Trafficking

Addiction creates drug trafficking and drug trafficking creates and adds to addiction. This is a vicious cycle that is being seen played out in the Pacific Nations that include areas like Samoa, Tonga, and Fiji. These areas were not known for drug use, but now a domestic market has developed because of transport through the areas. Many believe the people of these areas are victims of Australian drug use as the areas are caught between. While changes have been made to increase patrols in that area, the Pacific Islands feel that they are merely a shield, not being offered real help.

Cocaine Explosion

Using the Pacific Island area as a route between the US and Latin America to Australia. This is an unfortunate route for methamphetamines and cocaine which go for higher prices in these areas due to demand. As a main route, the Pacific Islands then end up with access which has grown their drug addiction and created violence in the area. The Islands, which are most associated with a vacation spot, are becoming narcotic hubs. This is because these islands are being used for storage for large amounts of narcotics. This is typically underwater or in ships that are passing through, but as crashes occur or nets break, the drugs wash ashore in large amounts.

Cocaine and Methamphetamines

Two of the most commonly shipped illegal substances to Australia are cocaine and methamphetamine. Cocaine is a stimulant drug that is powerfully addictive. Made from the coca leaves that were once chewed for the stimulant effect, current day street cocaine is a fine white powder, but is often cut with cornstarch, talcum powder, procaine, or even amphetamines. This increases profits for dealers, but makes the drug unsafe to use.

Methamphetamines are also highly addictive and come in crystal form that easily dissolves in water or alcohol so that it can be injected. Methamphetamines also create a happy, excitable effect, but more gets into the brain when compared to amphetamines. While medical uses are available for both cocaine and methamphetamines, the use is rare and highly regulated.

Recognizing Use

Recognizing the use of cocaine or methamphetamines may seem simple, but for those unfamiliar with the drugs the signs could be missed. Some of the most common are shared below:

Cocaine

  • Excitability
  • Dilated pupils
  • Weight loss
  • Mood swings
  • Socially isolated
  • Nosebleeds
  • Risky behaviors and choices
  • Poor hygiene
  • Financial difficulties

Methamphetamines

  • Hyperactivity
  • Twitching
  • Dilated pupils
  • Skin sores
  • Weight loss
  • Burns (lips and fingers)
  • Mood Swings
  • Rotting teeth

As you can see, many of the warning signs are the same for both addiction types caused by heavy drug use. Whether a loved one is addicted to meth or cocaine, the need for help is real. The type of help needed is also available at DARA.

Professional Help

Heavy Drug Use Prevailing in Pacific Nations

Getting professional help for a drug addiction can be intimidating. This is not only due to price, though cost is a factor, but because it can be embarrassing to ask for help or even admit that a problem exists. Drug addictions caused by heavy drug use are often well hidden until a person has reached a very low point in life. Some people will seek help on their own, but others may need to hear from family and friends that help is needed. While an intervention may not be the way to go, setting clear boundaries are a must so that addiction does not spread through a family. If you or a loved one needs professional help then go with the affordable, luxury accommodations at DARA.

DARA Facilities

DARA is an in-patient rehab facility that helps with addictions of all types. With locations in Australia and other countries, DARA can work with those who have an addiction to start on the road to long term sobriety from drugs or alcohol, as well as other addictions. Specific to Australia, DARA has locations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Auckland. With the location close to the Pacific Islands, yet away from the area in which the person is using drugs, DARA is the perfect option.

DARA is unique in its approach with the use of several areas that include education, relaxation, physical wellness, nutrition, and CBT treatments. Each aspect is helpful in teaching the addict to live a drug free life long term. CBT is a form of therapy that helps an individual identify specific behaviors and then the thoughts, feelings, and actions that make up those behaviors. Once these are identified, a change in the thought process can lead to changes in life. This can be helpful in identifying triggers that may be problematic when the in-patient stay is complete. Knowing one’s triggers means being able to plan ahead to deal with them or avoid them completely.

Physical Wellness

Many people and facilities overlook the importance of physical wellness as part of addiction treatment. Physical wellness and hygiene are often ignored by addicts so the body suffers as more drugs are ingested. The body further suffers through detox. This is why physical wellness activities and proper nutrition are a big part of DARA’s treatment. Top chefs from the area prepare daily meals and physical activities are required with many options available. Go for a morning swim, spend time with a personal trainer and help your body heal from the inside out. Time will also be spent in meditation and doing relaxation exercises throughout the 6 to12 week program. Furthermore, three weekly massages are included as part of the rehabilitation process. This can help the body relax and allow for toxins to be released.

The key to the success of DARA centers is the combination of these treatments and some time away from people and places in which drugs or alcohol are present. If you or a loved one is suffering with an addiction, call DARA to gain further information or set up a stay.

CLICK HERE to get a free confidential addiction rehabilitation assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone now.

Australia Has a Serious Addiction Problem

Australia Has a Serious Addiction Problem

Alternative Treatment, Articles, Australia, Education, International, Treatment, Understanding Addiction

Australia Has a Serious Addiction Problem

Addiction is defined as the act of being addicted to a specific substance or behavior. In psychology, addiction is defined as “a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory, and related circuitry.” (American Society of Addiction Medicine, 2018). This is further characterized by an inability to abstain with consistency from the substance or behavior. Without treatment and recovery activities, addiction is a serious problem that is progressive and can lead to disability or death.

Addiction in Australia

For Australia, the addiction problem is one of the country’s greatest issues. There are literal millions of Australians and their families that are struggling with a wide range of issues related to substance abuse and use. Unfortunately, for many, they do not receive treatment. There are always challenges to treatment, but it is available. This will be discussed at the end of this post.

Alcohol

For Australia, alcohol is one of the greatest dangers. In fact, nearly 6,000 people die each year from alcohol related incidents. That averages one person every 90 minutes each day. Too often, people overlook the dangers of drinking because it is legal, but alcohol is just as dangerous and addictive as illegal drugs or illicit drug use.

Alcohol can inhibit decision making abilities and puts great strain on the body, yet it is culturally acceptable. Even binge drinking has become a popular pastime for many. This can lead to a lifelong dependence. In Australia, binge drinking is defined as 6 drinks in two hours for men and four for women.

Illegal Drugs

Australia also has an issue with illegal drug use given the relatively small population size. Though marijuana is still the most commonly used drug, ecstasy, hallucinogens, and amphetamines are also popular. Close to three million people have tried ecstasy and that does not include the other drugs that fall into the hallucinogen or amphetamine categories.

The problem is that many people see overcoming addiction as something that requires only willpower. The truth is that overcoming addiction takes much more than willpower to overcome and stay clean long term. Addiction is actually a biological response by the body. For some drugs and individuals, a single use will leave the body craving more.

Prescription Drugs

Though legal, it is possible to become addicted to prescription drugs or to use them in an illegal manner. This is a problem in Australia. One study showed that as of 2017, doctors in Australia were writing 14 million opioid painkiller prescriptions annually. While this may not seem like a bad thing, about a tenth of people who take opioid painkillers, will become addiction or dependent. This translates to 1.4 million people in Australia alone who are addicted to pain killers. The saddest part is the prescriptions likely started as a real need for pain relief. While this is not true for all as some people doctor shop to gain access to these drugs, many had a real need.

People tend to underestimate the danger of opioid prescriptions because they come from a doctor for a real need. Just because something is medically useful, does not ensure safety. In 2015 it was found that well over half of drug related deaths in Australia were due to prescription opioids.

What to Do

With temptation running rampant in Australia, it can be tough to abstain. This is especially true when the drug of choice is a prescription or legal, such as alcohol. Some may even see minor drugs such as marijuana as harmless, even though it is illegal. This can easily lead to addiction and the issues that arise with an addiction.

Some may feel that the best way to escape addiction is to simply stay away. While an environmental change can be helpful, professional help is often required. That is where an in-patient facility can be greatly beneficial.

Seeking Help at DARA

If you or a loved one is suffering with an addiction of any type, consider DARA as an option for help. DARA is one of the top in-patient rehab facilities in the area with multiple locations in Brisbane, Melbourne, Auckland, Sydney, and others.

On average, a stay at DARA lasts between 6 and 12 weeks to help face the addiction issues in your life. DARA provides a luxury, resort style facility with amenities that will help you heal and be comfortable at affordable rates. Whether you are drawn purely by the need for help, the rates, or the beautiful views, DARA can provide you with the best. Each and every patient receives treatment that includes physical, spiritual, and mental aspects to get a good start on the road to recovery.

DARA Treatments

Australia Has a Serious Addiction Problem

DARA focuses on cognitive behavioral therapy, also called CBT. CBT is a form of therapy that helps an individual identify specific behaviors and then the thoughts, feelings, and actions that make up those behaviors. Once these are identified, a change in the thought process can lead to changes in life.

In addition to CBT, DARA uses physical activity and nutrition to help each patient heal from the inside out. A part of most addictions is a lack of self-care. This lack of self-care can lead to vitamin deficiencies poor eating, and lack of exercise. At DARA, top chefs in the area prepare daily meals and some form of physical activity is required each day. Activities such as swimming, yoga, and time in the gym are likely options. As the mind heals from the addiction, the body can begin to heal as well.

There are also weekly times of meditation and massages are offered three times a week for every patient. These are designed to both help patients relax and to release toxins from the body that have built up from drug and/or alcohol use and abuse. An additional education component about addiction is included to help individuals understand how addiction develops and continues.

The key to the success of DARA centers is the combination of these treatments and some time away from people and places in which drugs or alcohol are present. If you or a loved one is suffering with an addiction, call DARA to gain further information or set up a stay.

Contact DARA

CLICK HERE to get a free confidential addiction rehabilitation assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone now.

Who Uses Illicit Drugs in Australia?

Who Uses Illicit Drugs in Australia?

Alternative Treatment, Articles, Australia, Education, International, Treatment, Understanding Addiction

Illicit Drugs User Study in Australia

A study in Australia recently found that almost half of all Australians, 43% that are aged 14 and over, have used illicit drugs at least once in their lives. Of those same people, 16% have used illicit drugs at least once in the last year. In that 16% of the population, 75% have used between 1 and 11 times. This is considered infrequent use. The most commonly used or tried drugs are, in order, cannabis, ecstasy, hallucinogens, cocaine, and finally methamphetamine. Inhalants and heroine were also used, but at lower rates of less than 5 percent.

Age Differences

With nearly half the population admitting to use at some point, it may be interesting to know what age groups were the heaviest illicit drugs users. The study discovered this information for readers. It was found that the highest rate of lifetime use fell to 30-39 year old group right at 55% and closely followed by 40-49 year old group, just under 55 percent. This was followed by the 20-29 year old age group at 49% and 50-59 year old age group at 48 percent. However, in the past year the numbers have dropped significantly after age 30 to only 18 percent for lifetime use.

This shows that most people only use for a short period of time, typically in their twenties. This could be because as they age, more responsibility requires them to stop and function as adults without the use of drugs. However, in all age groups, rates of lifetime and recent use are higher for men.

Educational Differences

Though it is often assumed that those who are educated and employed are less likely to have ever been involved in drugs in any way, this is not the case. People with a post school qualification tend to have a higher lifetime rate of drug use over those without qualifications, 47 and 34% respectively. Furthermore, people in the paid workforce are also at a higher rate of lifetime use over those who are unemployed by about 8 percent. This may be due to the availability of disposable income.

Those who have used and are employed are much more likely to use cannabis over other options. Socioeconomic status does not seem to affect drug use over a lifetime, but those of lower socioeconomic advantage are more likely to continue use over time.

Assessing Illicit Drug Use

Even though drug use can start at any age, the early it starts, the more likely someone is to become addicted. This is true of nearly every illegal substance. This goes beyond experimenting with drugs to a true, physical problem. However, there are some drugs, such as methamphetamines, that only require one use in order for an addiction to develop. With that in mind, it is always best to know the signs of addiction so if they are present help can be sought for you or a loved one.

Defining Addiction

Before you can look for the signs of addiction, you must be able to define addiction. An addiction is a chronic disease that affects the brain’s reward system, motivation, and memory abilities. Someone with an addiction will crave the drug of choice.

General Signs of Addiction

There are a few overreaching, general signs of addiction that include:

  • Lack of control over the substance
  • Decreased socialization
  • Ignoring risk factors associated with use (sharing needles)
  • Physical symptoms (side effects, withdrawal symptoms, tolerance)

These can increase in intensity depending on the length of time a user has been using or the substance used.

Initial Signs of Addiction

Initial signs of addiction may also be called red flags or warning signs, and include:

  • Experimentation
  • Family history (those with close relatives who use are more likely to use)
  • Being drawn to a particular substance
  • Seeking substance rich activities
  • Binging episodes with the substance (often without memory of the event)

These can sometimes be difficult to identify, but overtime they will become evident and obvious.

Personality Changes

Often, some of the first signs that are noticed are those of personality changes. These are beyond changes in teenagers who are discovering their own personality in the world and move into blatant, out of character changes over time. These can include:

  • Increased secrecy (requiring privacy)
  • Loss of interest in hobbies or activities that were once important
  • Sleep pattern changes
  • Ignoring negative consequences of actions repeatedly
  • Neglecting relationships and obligations (friends, family, school, work)
  • Risk taking (especially to support the habit)

Health Changes

Drugs can also create physical and mental health issues that are often obvious. Health changes to watch for include:

  • Bloodshot, glazed, or eyes that are enlarged or dilated without cause
  • Speech changes (slurring, rambling)
  • Constant health issues (colds, runny nose, headaches)
  • Changes in weight (loss or gain quickly)
  • Poor skin, hair, teeth, or nails (poor hygiene in general)
  • Memory issues
  • Withdrawal when no drugs are available (sweating, shaking, vomiting)

Seeking Help

Who Uses Illicit Drugs in Australia?

If these describe you or a loved one, then it is time to seek professional help. DARA offers quality, affordable, resort style in-patient treatment at various locations throughout Australia. DARA treats each patient with an individualized plan to heal the mind, body, and spirit. This is accomplished through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy, physical wellness, nutrition, and education. CBT is used in both group and individual therapy sessions designed to help addicts share and understand their addiction. Physical wellness is provided through a personal trainer, access to a gym and pool, as well as structured group activities. Nutrition is prepared by top area chefs to meet the nutritional requirements of patients so the body can heal from the inside as well as the outside. Special times for meditation, massage, and relaxation are also included. If you need help battling addiction, DARA is a definite top choice.

Call Right Away

CLICK HERE to get a free confidential addiction rehabilitation assessment. Alternatively, you can click on the live chat icon to chat with someone now.