The human brain is a complex organ responsible for all our activities. Even as you read this, neurons activate circuits and networks in the brain that recognize each word, assign meaning, and form a thought. Engaging with that thought helps shape you and how you interact with the world.

When drugs are introduced, they interfere with how neurons send, receive, and process information. This can disrupt the connection between neurons, creating abnormal messages that alter the brain.

Some of these signals may reinforce unhealthy behaviors because the brain mistakenly perceives them as beneficial. Since drugs release large surges of dopamine, creating intense euphoria, the brain encourages continued use to repeat the pleasurable effect.

Unfortunately, this unhealthy relationship between the brain and drugs creates a cycle of addiction that is difficult to escape.

People may misuse substances to relieve emotional stress, anxiety, depression, or physical pain. Some people often take these substances out of curiosity and may experience a euphoric effect that feels positive.

Taking drugs for the first time is typically voluntary, but continued use can have negative consequences on a person’s life. 

While some people can take drugs and drink once and stop, others may form unhealthy habits with these substances to feel “normal.” 

There is no single factor that causes substance misuse. But the more risk factors that a person has, the greater their chances are of developing an SUD.

• Peer Pressure: Friends and peers are a strong influence on teens, increasing their risk of substance use and misuse.
• Mental Health Conditions: Depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health disorders are strongly linked to a person’s risk for SUDs. 
• Environment: You are often a product of your environment. Your family, school, and community can factor into your risk for addiction. Parents or family members who use drugs or misuse alcohol can increase a child’s risk of future substance misuse.⁶

Your Biology: Researchers have estimated that genes account for 40% and 60% of a person’s risk for addiction.⁷

Symptoms of SUD can vary from person to person and depend primarily on their substance of choice. However, there are a few signs that can indicate someone is experiencing addiction.

Some signs of addiction can include:

• Inability to stop
• Lack of control
• Increased tolerance
• Relationship problems
• Physical health issues
• Substance withdrawal

These signs of addiction could be indicators that someone needs help.

When they are ready to find a solution to prevent substance misuse, Tree House Recovery is here to help. Calling our admissions team can start the recovery process by assessing the level of care needed for treatment, verifying your insurance benefits, and answering any questions you have about addiction rehab in Colorado. 

Drug and alcohol misuse can impact more people than just the user. The person experiencing a SUD can feel the side effects of their misuse, and their loved ones, friends, co-workers, and community can feel the impact, too. 

Tree House Recovery provides high-level addiction treatment that is effective and supportive of you as you follow the path toward recovery. We are here to help you achieve the life you want to lead, starting with your decision to reach out and take your power back from addiction.