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We all have a preconceived idea of what an “addiction” is. We think of an alcoholic parent, a marijuana-obsessed sibling, a relative who won’t quit nicotine, or your coworker who needs several cups of coffee during the day. These are some of the most common addictions we think of, but there’s more complexity to it.

All addictions are dangerous, and some are more common than others; however, it’s important to remember that addiction is a chronic brain disease that’s not much different than cancer, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. The most common addictions affect millions of people in the U.S., and it’s a disease that can’t be cured, only treated.

People can be addicted to different things, but some addictions are more prevalent than others, and we’re committed to battling all kinds of addictions. Since 2016, Master Center has treated dozens of different addictions like alcohol, heroin, opioids, benzos, kratom addiction, and more. Our specialists have noted the most common addictions they see, and how they can be treated with an integrated recovery plan.

You may be wondering: what exactly are the most common addictions people have? Are you or someone you care about susceptible to an addiction? That’s why it’s important to know these common addictions so you can identify the disease in yourself or someone you care about and get help as soon as possible.

What is an Addiction?

Put simply, addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite negative consequences. Addiction is not a choice, but rather it’s an incurable, treatable disease that requires many avenues of support. Therapy, recovery coaching, medication-assisted treatment, and a strong support network are just a few components of addiction treatment.

It’s important to note that addiction is different from substance abuse; people can abuse substances without being clinically addicted to them, which is why addiction is a disease and not just a life disruption. Addiction is most often used in terms of drug or alcohol addictions, but other addictions include caffeine, gambling, pornography, sex, and sugar addictions. These are behavioral addictions and can be just as harmful as substance addiction, too.

Signs & Symptoms of Addiction

Addiction presents itself differently in individuals, but there are a few common ways to tell someone is struggling with addiction.

1. Withdrawal Symptoms: These can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, changes in mood, and anxiety when someone stops using their substance.

2. Increased Tolerance to the Substance: Tolerance can be defined as when more of a drug or addictive substance is required to generate the same physical effects, or when the usual amount fails to bring on the desired “high” or feeling of pleasure.

3. Neglecting Obligations: This includes neglecting once-loved things such as work, school, family time, social engagements, or hobbies.

4. Harmful Behaviors: This may sometimes involve lying, stealing, and kinds of manipulation.

5. Lack of Self-Control: In this case, the person cannot help themselves anymore; they just must “have it.” When on the substance, they also become irrational, uncontrollable, and desperate.

6. Using the Drug Despite Negative Consequences: This may include loss of work, issues in familial relationships, health problems, and legal consequences.

Knowing how to tell if someone is using drugs depends on the person and the substance, but it’s crucial to look out for these warning signs, especially with the most common addictions.

The 3 Most Common Addictions

Now that you know what addiction is, let’s explore the 3 most common addictions and what you can do to get help: alcohol addiction, opioid addiction, and combination addiction.

1. Alcohol Addiction

It’s reported that over 29 million adults (or over 10% of the U.S. population) have an alcohol addiction, making it one of the most common addictions. Alcohol addiction is when someone continues drinking despite negative consequences; they may not even stop drinking until they pass out, black out, or are knocked out.” Some of the signs of alcohol addiction include:

• Neglecting Responsibilities in Exchange for Alcohol: This looks like problems at work, school, or household responsibilities caused by drinking, where it begins to affect normal daily activities and functioning.

• Withdrawal Experiences: Alcohol withdrawal should not be confused with a mere hangover; it’s shown through signs like depression, irritability, and anxiety. It becomes advanced when the person is having trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, and trembling and shaking.

• Persistent Inability to Quit: This means that the person physically cannot quit despite the consequences. This looks like getting arrested, losing custody of a child, getting fired, or being excluded from family gatherings.

Alcohol addiction is one of the deadliest diseases, killing over 3 million people per year, and it’s a treatable, preventable tragedy. Keep in mind that alcohol abuse and alcoholism are two different things, and knowing this difference can play a major role in getting help. So, keep a lookout for these signs to protect yourself, your loved ones, and others.

2. Opioid Addiction

You may be familiar with opioids, and they’re one of the most common addictions of this era. Opioids are a class of drugs that include heroin, synthetic opioids like fentanyl, and pain relievers like oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and others. These drugs work by activating the pleasure receptors in your brain quickly, and this instant gratification is what leads to dependence and addiction.

Sadly, opioid addiction leads to thousands of preventable deaths yearly, with overdoses being the leading cause of unnatural deaths in Virginia since 2013. That’s why it’s crucial to keep a lookout for the signs of opioid addiction and get help as soon as possible.

3. Combination Addiction

The last of the most common addictions is “combination addiction.” You may not have heard of this type, but it’s prevalent in many with substance use disorders. Combination addiction, also known as “polysubstance use,” is the combination of drugs, alcohol, and/or prescription drugs of different variations, whether intentionally or not. For instance, some people use marijuana and alcohol to get “crossed,” or people use opioids and methamphetamines together for an advanced high.

Sometimes, these combinations are done unintentionally or accidentally, but they still have devastating effects In fact, nearly half of drug overdose deaths involved multiple drugs. That’s why it’s important to take precautions when combining drugs or medications. General precautions to avoid becoming addicted should include:

• Knowing the drugs prescribed and what they’re for, the side effects associated with it, and any required precautions to be taken.

• Use the same pharmacy for all prescribed medications except when it cannot be helped; this would ensure that a record of all medications is maintained.

• Be open with the doctor and pharmacist about any self-medicating that you may have done or are taking presently, which may include over-the-counter drugs, herbal or alternative medications, or any illegal substances, so that you can be educated on the possible interactions.

• Avoid using medication prescribed for others.

• Do not assume any need to increase medication dosages or use medications in other ways without medical approval.

Combination addiction kills thousands, so be sure to avoid the risks and get help for other addictions as soon as possible.

Remember That All Addictions Are Equally Deadly

Alcohol, opioid, and combination addictions may be the most common addictions, but they’re all equally deadly. Anyone can develop an addiction to anything or substance, and so, it’s crucial to identify the signs of addiction early and get help as quickly as possible.

Remember, too, that addiction is a chronic brain disease, and no matter the substance, it requires an integrated treatment plan. Help is out there, and at Master Center, we offer addiction treatment for all addictions, including alcohol, opioids, heroin, benzos, Kratom, and more. So, if you’re ready to get the help you need, schedule a call for a consultation appointment today, and get a treatment plan that’s just right for you.

About Master Center

Master Center is a groundbreaking addiction treatment program headquartered in Glen Allen, Va. Based on a vision of comprehensive outpatient care, Master Center was launched in 2016 and now includes locations throughout the Commonwealth.

Master Center offers a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach rarely seen in the outpatient setting, staffed by experienced addiction physicians, psychiatrists, counselors, therapists, and peer recovery coaches.