Addiction is one of the most critical public health challenges in India today. Whether it’s alcohol, drugs, tobacco, gaming, or even social media — addiction affects the mind, body, emotions, relationships, and daily functioning.
According to studies, 1 in every 10 Indians struggles with some form of addictive behavior, yet most people hesitate to seek help due to social stigma, shame, or fear of being judged.
But the reality is very clear:
➡ Addiction is not a moral failure.
➡ It is a medical condition that needs professional treatment.
➡ And early intervention can save lives.
In this comprehensive blog, we will explain everything you need to know about addiction, its signs, health risks, causes, diagnosis, and how Dr. Shreemit Maheshwari, a leading psychiatrist and de-addiction specialist in Indore, offers effective and evidence-based treatment at Maheshwari Mind Clinic.
What Is Addiction?
Addiction is a chronic mental and physical health condition where a person becomes dependent on a substance or behavior despite harmful consequences.
It affects:
- brain functioning
- decision-making
- emotional control
- physical health
- behavior
- relationships
- career and academics
Addiction gradually takes over a person’s life, making it extremely difficult to stop without professional support.
Types of Addictions Commonly Treated in Indore
✔ 1. Alcohol Addiction
Most common form of addiction in India. Causes liver disease, heart issues, depression, and accidents.
✔ 2. Drug Addiction
Includes heroin, cannabis, cocaine, LSD, MDMA, brown sugar, etc. Extremely harmful and illegal.
✔ 3. Tobacco / Nicotine Addiction
Cigarettes, beedis, e-cigarettes, gutka, pan masala — major cause of cancer and respiratory diseases.
✔ 4. Prescription Medicine Addiction
Abuse of sleeping pills, painkillers, or psychiatric medicines.
✔ 5. Behavioral Addictions
- Mobile addiction
- Gaming addiction
- Gambling
- Pornography
- Social media addiction
Behavioral addictions are increasing rapidly among teenagers.
Why Do People Get Addicted? (Causes)
Addiction isn’t caused by weakness or poor willpower. It is influenced by several factors.
1. Genetic Factors
If addiction runs in the family, the risk increases.
2. Brain Chemistry Changes
Addictive substances release large amounts of dopamine (the pleasure chemical), making the brain crave more.
3. Emotional or Psychological Factors
People with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, or loneliness are more prone.
4. Peer Pressure
Especially common among students and young adults.
5. Social Environment
Easy availability of substances increases the risk.
6. Stress and Lifestyle
High stress increases dependency on substances as coping mechanisms.
7. Lack of Awareness
People often do not realize when a habit turns into addiction.
Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
Early identification is crucial. Here are warning signs:
Behavioral Symptoms
- Lack of self-control
- Continued use despite harm
- Unable to stop
- Lying about use
- Avoiding family
- Poor work or academic performance
- Risky behavior
- Loss of interest in hobbies
Physical Symptoms
- Weight loss
- Red eyes
- Poor sleep
- Tremors
- Slurred speech
- Poor hygiene
- Frequent illness
Psychological Symptoms
- Anxiety
- Anger
- Irrational behavior
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Guilt or shame
- Memory issues
If you see these signs in yourself or someone else, immediate help is needed.
Health Risks of Untreated Addiction
Addiction affects every organ of the body and mind.
⚠ 1. Liver damage and liver failure (Alcohol)
⚠ 2. Heart disease
⚠ 3. Stroke
⚠ 4. Brain damage
⚠ 5. Lung damage (Smoking/drugs)
⚠ 6. Sexual dysfunction
⚠ 7. Severe depression or suicide risk
⚠ 8. Financial problems
⚠ 9. Relationship issues
⚠ 10. Legal problems (Drugs)
Addiction also affects families emotionally and financially.
When Should You See a De-Addiction Specialist in Indore?
Seek help if:
- You cannot stop even if you want to
- You experience withdrawal symptoms
- Substance use is affecting work or studies
- Relationships are getting ruined
- Physical health is deteriorating
- You lie or hide your usage
- You feel guilt, shame, or loss of control
- You have tried quitting but relapsed
Remember: The earlier you seek help, the easier the recovery.
Addiction Treatment in Indore at Maheshwari Mind Clinic
Dr. Shreemit Maheshwari offers a scientific, structured, and highly effective addiction treatment approach. Treatment includes both medical and psychological interventions.
1. Complete Assessment & Diagnosis
During the first consultation, the doctor assesses:
- Type of addiction
- Duration
- Physical health
- Mental health
- Withdrawal risks
- Triggers and habits
Based on this, a personalized treatment plan is created.
2. Detoxification (If Needed)
Detox helps remove addictive substances safely from the body.
It helps manage withdrawal symptoms such as:
- restlessness
- sweating
- irritability
- tremors
- cravings
- nausea
Detox may be inpatient (hospital-based) depending on severity.
3. Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medications help:
- reduce cravings
- control withdrawal symptoms
- stabilize mood
- reduce anxiety and depression
- prevent relapse
This is always done under psychiatric supervision.
4. Psychotherapy (Counseling)
✔ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Helps change harmful thinking and behavior patterns.
✔ Motivational Interviewing (MI)
Builds inner motivation to quit addiction.
✔ Relapse Prevention Therapy
Teaches skills to avoid triggers.
✔ Family Therapy
Helps repair relationships and supports recovery.
5. Behavioral Modification
Helps the patient build healthier habits by:
- establishing structure
- improving daily routine
- setting goals
- increasing accountability
- replacing bad habits
6. Supportive Psychotherapy
Helps the patient:
- overcome guilt
- build confidence
- understand emotions
- manage stress
- stay motivated
7. Long-Term Follow-Up
Addiction requires continuous support.
Follow-up sessions help:
- track progress
- prevent relapse
- manage stress
- reinforce positive behavior
Why Early Treatment Is Crucial
Addiction is a progressive condition —
the longer it continues, the harder it becomes to treat.
Early treatment:
- prevents mental and physical damage
- reduces chances of relapse
- improves family relationships
- helps restore career and academic performance
- saves money and emotional suffering
- increases long-term recovery rates
Why Choose Dr. Shreemit Maheshwari for Addiction Treatment in Indore?
- Trusted psychiatrist in Indore
- Expert in alcohol & drug de-addiction
- Personalized treatment plans
- Modern therapy techniques
- Combination of medication + counseling
- Confidential and judgment-free environment
- Associated with CHL Hospital
- Thousands of successful recovery stories
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is addiction curable?
Yes. With proper treatment and long-term support, recovery is possible.
2. Is medication required?
Not always. It depends on the type and severity of addiction.
3. Can a person quit addiction on their own?
Possible for mild cases, but moderate to severe addiction requires professional help.
4. Is addiction a mental illness?
Yes. It is considered a chronic mental and behavioral disorder.
5. How long does treatment take?
It varies — from a few weeks to several months, depending on the patient.
Conclusion
Addiction is not a sign of weakness — it is a medical condition that needs treatment, understanding, and support. Thousands of people recover every year with the right guidance. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, do not wait until it becomes severe.
Early intervention can save a life.
For effective addiction treatment in Indore, contact:
Dr. Shreemit Maheshwari
Maheshwari Mind Clinic, Indore
Call: +91-8105949881
Recovery is possible — take the first step today.