Causes of Amphetamine Abuse & Addiction
There are many reasons an individual may begin to use certain drugs or substances such as amphetamines. They could have been initially prescribed by a physician to manage certain symptoms, used as an attempt to self-medicate to escape personal problems, or out of curiosity. While the exact cause for addiction is unknown it is likely a combination of a variety of factors. These may include:
Genetic: Individuals who have family members that have had problems with substance abuse and addiction are more likely to develop an addiction later in life. Research has shown that there is likely a genetic trait that is passed on – especially among first-degree relatives.
Brain Chemistry: Amphetamine addiction may be a result of abnormalities in the structure and function of the brain. Some researchers have proposed that lower levels of dopamine in the brain may cause people who abuse uppers to crave the euphoric feelings caused by amphetamine abuse. There may exist different sizes of certain areas of the brain in individuals who become addicted.
Environmental: It has been hypothesized that individuals who have grown up in stressful or unhappy homes are more likely to develop an addiction later in life. Additionally, an environment where drug abuse and addiction is accepted can cause an individual to develop substance abuse disorders as they have come to see drug abuse as appropriate behavior.
Psychological: Another theory suggests that many individuals are looking for a way to self-medicate the symptoms of a mental illness. Continued abuse of amphetamines leads to the disruption of normal levels of dopamine in the brain, so over time an amphetamine user is unable to feel pleasure without using the drug.
Entering Salt Recovery for amphetamine addiction
In recovery, you can address amphetamine addiction in a safe and private environment. It’s an environment away from negative triggers and where there’s lots of positive empowerment and guided support.
Once you are settled, the treatment process can begin. Recovering at Salt Recovery will incorporate many therapies. You may attend group and individual therapy, and there are five-star amenities and activities to take advantage of, too. Therapy sessions include:
Psychotherapy: This therapy treatment is a big part of recovery. Cognitive behavioral therapy, in particular, helps you learn how to cope and change negative thinking.
Support Groups: These are great when dealing with a dual diagnosis that can feel isolating. Support groups let clients share frustrations, celebrate successes and find referrals for specialists. They also provide a space for forming healthy friendships filled with encouragement to stay clean.
Holistic wellness practices: Art therapy, meditation classes and other forms of wellness practices help with recovery. Often, a person’s mental health is the big cause of substance abuse disorders. Removing negative triggers and introducing healthy habits allows a person to rest. It also helps calm their mind and learn the tools they need to prolong their recovery for the rest of their lives.