Addiction is devastating. The hardest part of having a family member or a loved one with an addiction is watching them deteriorate. It’s a condition that starts off innocently, with a person ingesting a substance like alcohol, nicotine, maybe one of the numerous drugs available, or possibly engaging in gambling, even shopping. It typically starts off as fun and pleasurable. But then things change. The continued use or act becomes compulsive and starts to interfere with one’s life. Work, relationships, and health start to deteriorate. Sadly, many users may not be aware that their behavior has changed, they’ve lost control and it’s causing problems for themselves and others.
Partha’s RX:
When youths perceive drug abuse as harmful, they reduce their drug intake. So prevention is key. Send the message that drug addiction can be prevented if one never abuses drugs.
If you suspect your loved one is addicted to gambling, express your concerns. Encourage him or her to get help and let them know how much you care and support them.
Learning about addiction and its powerful effects on individuals can give you insight on the best way to treat it. Visit the National Institute for Drug Abuse or the National Council on Problem Gambling to learn more.
If you fear you have an addiction, seek help. The sooner you do, the greater your chances for long-term recovery. Start by talking with your primary doctor or see a mental health provider that specializes in addiction medicine.
Dr. Partha Nandi M.C. F.A.C.P. is a fulltime, practicing gastroenterologist and internal medicine physician. As an active holistic health practitioner in the field, Dr. Nandi is also the Chief Health Editor at WXYZ ABC Detroit. At the age of 16, he completed his high school education in Columbus, Ohio where he was awarded a full academic scholarship to The Ohio State University and University of Notre Dame. To remain closer to his family, he chose Ohio State. Partha graduated summa cum laude (Top 1% of the class), a member of Phi Beta Kappa honor society, with a Bachelors degree in chemistry and a minor in classical Greek civilization. Partha also served as the Rhodes Scholar representative from Ohio State. Partha then traveled to Detroit, Michigan to obtain his medical degree at Wayne State University. At Wayne State, he was a member of Alpha Omega Alpha honor society and graduated in the top 10% of the class. He also completed his internal medicine training at Wayne State University, where he was the intern of the year. He completed his gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Dr. Nandi practices gastroenterology in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan. He is the author of several publications in peer reviewed journals. He is a national speaker, educating physicians on various topics within medicine. He is a patient advocate, emphasizing empathy in patient care and treatment of the entire patient, both body and mind. Partha is passionate, empathetic and dedicated to his patients and his community.
