Heavensfield

The Addiction Project is produced by HBO in partnership with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). Several documentary filmmakers came together along with NIDA, NIAAA and HBO to produce a series of episodes which capture the latest trends and research in the addictions field. As a therapist, I highly recommend this series if you or someone you love is dealing with an addiction.

Addiction is a chronic brain disease which has the power to alter a users behavior in ways that make it difficult to stop on their own. For a substance dependent person, the drug becomes the salient force in their lives -- more important than friends, family, work, children and other important responsibilities. Many find themselves continuing to use against their own will to stop, and despite adverse consequences such as relationship problems, job loss, and legal issues. Although it may seem to be a moral failing on the part of the individual, most users really want to stop and can't.

Drug use alters the brains neurochemistry. Research findings demonstarte changes in the reward center of the brain. If a drug delivers a reward to the brain many times what a naturalreward would be in everyday life, it stands to reason that seeking that reward would become salient.

When people are trying to quit using, the environment itself may serve as a powerful drug cue as shown in this short clip from the series. There are plenty of new treatment options available to help someone deal with drug addiction. No longer is it advisable to allow people to reach "rock bottom" before friends, family and the user seeks help. 

If you or someone you care about is struggling with drug addiction, contact Heavensfield for assistance and information on treatment options and available community resources.

For the latest research findings on addiction, visit the HBO addiction website.