Do you struggle with the need to use substances on a routine basis? It may feel like a critical part of your day to stop for a drink after work or to relax with a few beers after dinner. For some people, it’s hard to get through the day without using something, even at work. If that’s the case for you, you may have addiction and dependence.

There are various forms of addiction, and though each has its own symptoms and repercussions, most follow the same path. Addiction occurs when you recognize that the action you are engaging in isn’t safe or healthy, but you are unable to stop doing it. It forms over time as the substances continue to trigger the brain’s pleasure center.

Addiction means you don’t have control over your thoughts and actions. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reported that, in 2021, 61.2 million people in the U.S., age 12 or older, had used illicit drugs in the previous year. More so, 46.3 million people met the criteria for having a substance use disorder in the previous year.

What Are the Most Common Types of Addiction?

The following are some of the most common addictions in the U.S.

Alcohol

Alcohol is the most common type of addiction in the U.S. The same survey as above found that 29.5 million people have an alcohol use disorder. This type of addiction occurs when a person needs to have a drink to feel normal, get through the day, or stop thinking about their problems. Many people have high-functioning addiction, which means they can still work and engage in life even though they misuse alcohol on a consistent basis.

Nicotine

The second most common type of addiction is nicotine, which comes in numerous forms: chewing tobacco, cigarettes, and vaping. A growing number of people are using vapes, and some of them are teens, because of the perceived belief that this is safe.

Opioids

Opioid addiction can be terrifying for many people, often because it begins through the use of prescription-strength medications used for pain relief. Yet, opioids are highly dangerous, leading to 80,411 reported overdose deaths in 2021, as noted by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. Opioids, whether illicit forms or prescription, can be highly addictive.

Marijuana

Though laws are changing around the country in relation to the legality of marijuana, it is still a dangerous and highly addictive substance, especially when used consistently or in high doses. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 3 in 10 people who use it develop a marijuana use disorder. This can lead to numerous health risks, changes in mental health, and cognitive-related disorders.

Cocaine

Cocaine is a powerful drug responsible for many overdoses. It is also easier to obtain today than it used to be. However, cocaine is dangerous and carries the risk of not just overdose but changes to mental health and damage to the lungs, liver, kidneys, and heart. As with all addictive substances, continued use can lead to tolerance, which means more of the drug is necessary in order to get the desired high.

Stimulants

Stimulant drugs include those used to treat mental health disorders such as ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). This includes prescriptions like Ritalin and Adderall, which are often misused by people who do not have the prescription. Meth addiction is another concern, as this type of stimulant is highly addictive and devastating to a person’s health and well-being.

Benzodiazepines

Medications like Valium, Klonopin, and Xanax are highly addictive substances used to treat mental health disorders. Benzodiazepines change the function of the brain, and for those without any type of mental health disorder, they can be highly addictive and deadly. They are also very difficult to stop using without professional, controlled treatment.

Behavioral Addictions

Drug or alcohol addiction are not the only types of addiction. Many people develop behavioral addictions as well, with some of the most common including:

• Sexual addiction
• Gambling addiction
• Food-related addictions
• Video game addiction
• Shopping addiction

These can lead to additional risks to overall mental health and well-being.

Turn to Victory Addiction Recovery Center Now for Immediate Help

Addiction to any substance or behavior changes lives, but it doesn’t have to be your future. Our team at Victory Addiction Recovery Center is available to discuss your case with you. We offer 24/7 help for our clients. Let us talk to you about your health, well-being, and your future without drugs. Reach out to our drug and alcohol treatment center in Lafayette, LA, for the help you need today.

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