Addiction is a Disease

Addiction as a DiseaseAddiction as a Disease Addiction is a complex disease of the brain and body that involves compulsive use of one or more substances despite serious health and social consequences. Addiction disrupts regions of the brain that are responsible for reward, motivation, learning, judgment and memory. It damages various body systems as well as families, relationships, schools, workplaces and neighborhoods.

The Science of Drug Use and Addiction: The Basics | National Institute on Drug AbuseWhat is drug addiction? Addiction is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking, continued use despite harmful consequences, and long-lasting changes in the brain. It is considered both a complex brain disorder and a mental illness. Addiction is the most severe form of a full spectrum of substance use disorders, and is a medical illness caused by repeated misuse of a substance or substances.

To obtain Narcan, click here

To access the Drug Overdose Resource Guide, click here

To download the TN Recover app, click here

To view training video, click here

Addictionary

The words we use matter. If we want to support people in recovery, we need to learn a language that reduces stigma. Stigma increases the length of time before a person with a substance use disorder will seek treatment. Follow the link to a vocabulary paradigm shift.

If you have loved ones who may be at risk for an overdose, please know:

Overdoses usually happen over a matter of time; not instantaneously
Someone can be breathing, have a pulse AND be overdosing
Most overdoses occur in the victim's home or the home of a friend
Who is at highest risk of overdose? Anyone:
- experiencing sobriety for a period of time (jail, rehabilitation, decreased using for a period of time, decreased tolerance)
- mixing drugs
- elderly
- mentally ill
Be prepared, carry the only opioid overdose agent: Narcan*
DO NOT WAIT UNTIL SOMEONE IS DEAD TO NARCAN.

*Be sure to have Narcan on hand - Email Kahla at kahla@scadcoalition.org

Regional Overdose Prevention Specialists

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