Why Do People Use Alcohol And Other Drugs?
Basically, people use substances such as alcohol and other drugs because they like the way these substances make them feel.  Pleasure is a powerful force.  Your brain is wired so that if you do something that feels good, you will probably want to do it again.  All drugs that are addicting can activate and affect the brain’s pleasure circuit.

What Is Addiction?
Addiction is a disease that affects your brain and your behavior.  You have control over your choice to start using drugs, but once you start; their pleasurable effect makes you want to keep using them.  When you become addicted to alcohol or other drugs, your brain actually changes in certain ways so that a powerful urge to use drugs controls your behavior.

How Do I Know If I Have A Problem?
You have a problem with drugs or alcohol if you continue to use them even when they cause problems with your health, money, or work or school, or relationships.  You may have a problem if you have developed a tolerance to drugs or alcohol.  This means you need to use more and more to get the same effect.

Listen to loved ones who express concern over your drug use.  They may help you recognize that you have a problem.

Can Addiction Be Treated?
Yes, but addiction is a chronic relapsing disease.  It may take a number of attempts before you can remain free of drug or alcohol.

 How Can I Quit Abusing Drugs or Alcohol?
The first step in breaking addiction is to understand that you can take control of what you do.  You can’t control all the things that happen in your life or most of what other people do, but you do have control over how you react.  So use that control.  The following are the next steps to breaking your addiction:

• Commit to quitting.  Once you decide to quit, make a plan to be sure that you really do it.
• Get help from your doctor.  Your doctor can give you support and help you find a treatment program that meets your needs.  You doctor can also treat withdrawal symptoms and other problems that you may have as you recover from your addiction.
• Get support.  Ask your family and friends for support.