Once a drug user's cravings become stronger, they become addicted to the drug. Substance dependence has different categories that indicate whether the user is addicted or not. The first is tolerance, as a drug user begins to use more and more of a drug and their tolerance begins to grow, as does their need for the drug. The next sign is discomfort. This is when the user feels distress and discomfort when not high. Another sign is when the user has little desire or effort to regulate the use of the drug. As addicts' addiction slowly increases, they begin to abandon their normal activities and lose interest in completing tasks. Addiction is fully indicated when the user continues to consume knowing that it has harmful side effects. Drug withdrawals are the symptoms experienced when decreasing the use of a drug and can be brutal for the drug user. For a drug user to experience withdrawal symptoms, they first develop a physical and/or psychological dependence. Drug use changes an addict's state of mind, and when a drug is used on an ongoing basis, they begin to feel the need for it to feel "normal." Withdrawal symptoms vary depending on the drug used. For example, opiate withdrawal includes anxiety, sweating, vomiting, and diarrhea, while alcohol withdrawal causes irritability, fatigue, tremors, sweating, and nausea. Once an addict's withdrawal symptoms have subsided, they can be triggered again by reminding them of the drug. Addiction affects the brain in three ways: the craving of the addiction, the loss of control over its use, and the continuation of its use despite its negative consequences. Addiction attacks the brain by disrupting the way it registers pleasure and then corrupting other normal drives such as learning and motivation. Depressants ...... middle of article ...... ipulations of memories associated with drugs (Psychopharmacology p. 14). When a drug user is often reminded of the drug they are using, the addict continues to use the drug. Researchers have found that by reducing these signals, the urge to use the drug decreases. Other forms of treatment include rehabilitation. In rehab, the addict is treated in different ways, including medication, counseling and sharing experiences. With proper treatment, an addict can live the rest of their life drug-free. Substance dependence is highly addictive and can affect one's life permanently. It is one of the most difficult addictions to kick and is the cause of many premature deaths in the United States. With proper help, the addict can eliminate this psychological disorder and live a clean life. If someone you know is using drugs, get them help before addiction destroys their life..