UNDERSTANDING ADDICTION
Addiction isn’t just a bad choice or a lack of self-control—it’s a chronic disease that changes
how the brain works. It affects a person’s ability to stop using a substance, even when it’s
harming them or the people around them. And the truth is, addiction often starts young.
At Let’s Start EARLY, we believe that when children and adults understand what addiction
really is, they’re better equipped to prevent it, spot the signs early, and support those who
are struggling.
WHAT IS ADDICTION?
Addiction is a brain disorder that affects motivation, memory, judgment, and behavior. Over
time, drugs and alcohol can 'rewire' the brain, making it hard for a person to feel normal
without them. It becomes more than a want—it becomes a need, and stopping isn't just
difficult, it's painful and dangerous without help.
WHY DOES IT AFFECT THE BRAIN?
When a person uses drugs, it floods the brain with chemicals like dopamine—causing a
powerful sense of pleasure or relief. The brain wants more of that feeling, so it starts
prioritizing the substance over healthy behaviors like eating, sleeping, or spending time
with loved ones.
Repeated use can lead to:
- Cravings and loss of control
- Mood swings and anxiety
- Risky behavior and withdrawal from friends or activities
- Physical changes in the brain that make quitting very hard without support
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WHY ARE YOUTH ESPECIALLY AT RISK
Children and teens are still growing—especially their brains. The parts of the brain that
control decision-making and impulse control aren’t fully developed until around age 25.
This makes young people more vulnerable to risky choices and more likely to become
addicted if they start using early.
Did you know?
- 90% of adults with substance use disorder started using before age 18
- The younger someone starts using, the more likely they are to become addicted
- Early education and support significantly reduce this risk
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USE vs. MISUSE vs. ADDICTION
It's important to understand the difference:
- Use: Trying a drug or using it occasionally (even once can be dangerous)
- Misuse: Using in a harmful or unsafe way (e.g., taking too much or using to escape
emotions)
- Addiction: A chronic disease where the person can’t stop even when it causes harm
Addiction is not a moral failure—it’s a medical condition that requires compassion, support,
and treatment.
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WHY EDUCATION MATTERS
When kids understand what addiction is and how it affects people they love—or could
affect themselves—they’re more likely to:
- Make healthy choices
- Resist peer pressure
- Ask for help if they need it
- Show empathy to others who are struggling
Understanding addiction is the first step to ending it.
Let’s start early—because informed kids grow into strong, healthy adults.