What?

What is addiction? In the DSM 5 addiction, or substance use disorder is defined as a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug-seeking and use despite adverse consequences.

For most of us addiction is a nightmare. It rips apart families. It makes people do things that are against their morals and values. It causes good people to exhibit bad behaviors. Addiction for me has been a blessing and a curse. Thankfully, I did not follow in my parents footsteps and do not have substance use disorder, even though studies would say I should. I am one of the resilient ones. Instead of using I chose to help those suffering, although this was not my first option. I thought I would have a career in education, but God had other plans. After my mothers’ overdose I was thrust into the recovery field. I wanted to learn more about this disease and why it takes such a strong hold on those we love. I wanted to know why people are willing to risk it all for a substance. Addiction negatively impacted by childhood, but I refused to allow it to ruin my life. I needed to have answers.