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Substance Addiction

At ARMS, we are not only dedicated to treating young people with substance-related problems. We also want to end the stigma associated with drug addiction by educating the public about the fact that addiction is a disease of the brain and should not be attributed to personal or moral deficiencies.

Regular use of addictive substances, including alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, and heroin, can change the brains’ structure and function.

A Disease of the Brain

While it is true that young people do exercise control over their use of drugs and alcohol, the regular use of addictive substances, including alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, and heroin, can change their brains’ structure and function. After their brains’ normal function has been impaired, teen addicts will do anything to continue using substances, even destroying their relationships, school and work life, and health.

Recent findings related to the relationship between drug and alcohol abuse and brain chemistry have led scientists and addiction experts to compare addiction to other chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. As with those conditions, addicts must commit to making significant changes to their behavior and lifestyle in order to counter any existing damage that has occurred and prevent their continued decline or death.

The Importance of Support During a Difficult Time

Behavior modification is extremely difficult, particularly for teenagers, and especially when it requires the elimination of substances that cause immediate gratification and pleasure. During this process, it is crucial for young people with substance-related problems to receive judgment-free support from those around them, including their teachers, school administrators, and peers.

Even after a young person has made the commitment to seek treatment for his or her substance related problems, constant vigilance by the student and those around him or her is required to prevent a relapse. ARMS can help to support the recovery process by providing schools with information on relapse warning signs and helping with relapse prevention and relapse intervention planning. Our addiction clinicians and recovery coaches are also available to answer specific questions and meet one-on-one with students and school staff, by phone or in person.