Substance addiction is not merely an issue threatening individual health, but rather a complex public health problem that affects families, society, and future generations. In medicine and psychology, addiction is defined as a state where a person develops uncontrolled physical or psychological dependence on a substance and cannot maintain normal life functions without it. Unfortunately, addiction often becomes even more complicated with withdrawal symptoms and causes damage in many areas from social relationships to mental health.

While illegal substances typically come to mind when discussing addiction, we must not forget that legal substances like alcohol can be equally dangerous. Alcohol, due to its legal accessibility, is often perceived as less dangerous in society; however, it is a powerful addictive substance that can lead to brain function impairments, liver failure, and social destruction in the long term. The harm caused by alcohol often rivals that of illegal substances like heroin. Therefore, the perception that "alcohol is less risky" is not scientifically valid.

Substances like cannabis are often defended as being "innocent" or "natural," but their use, especially at young ages, poses serious risks. Research has shown that cannabis often serves as a "gateway" to other addictive substances. In addition to cognitive impairments such as memory loss, attention deficit, and lack of motivation, cannabis is known to cause psychological dependence. Being a substance that is slowly eliminated from the body makes its long-term effects more permanent.

The phenomenon where individuals with addiction gradually require higher doses to achieve the same effect is called "tolerance development." This situation leads individuals to increase their dosage, which in turn brings the risk of overdose. This risk reaches life-threatening levels, especially with powerful substances like heroin, methamphetamine, and synthetic drugs.

Substance addiction causes serious harm not only to physical health but also to an individual's social relationships. Particularly, paranoid thoughts, misunderstandings, and emotional instability weaken the individual's bonds with their close circle. Individuals using stimulants like methamphetamine may develop suspicion, aggression, and even delusions. For example, some individuals, under the influence of the substance, may perceive nonexistent betrayal or threats and exhibit violent behavior.

Withdrawal symptoms experienced after quitting substances make the process even more complex. Symptoms like sleep problems, loss of appetite, irritability, and depression are typically intense in the first weeks. However, these symptoms are temporary and can be alleviated with a healthy lifestyle. Adequate water intake, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and psychological support are fundamental elements that can help individuals during this process. Especially keeping a journal to track emotional states and progressing with small goals helps individuals observe themselves and manage the process.

For individuals with alcohol addiction, the withdrawal process must be handled much more carefully. A severe withdrawal syndrome known as "delirium tremens" can manifest with symptoms like hallucinations, excessive sweating, tremors, and seizures. In this case, medical support must be sought immediately, as attempting to intervene alone can be life-threatening.

Another common experience among individuals who have quit addiction is dreaming about using substances again. This situation can be explained both by the subconscious continuing to process old habits and by the individual still harboring an internal craving. However, such dreams decrease over time. Adopting new hobbies, keeping the mind occupied, and naturally stimulating the brain's reward system to restructure it are extremely important.

Addiction is not only an issue for the individual but also a condition that requires active family involvement in the solution process. Early intervention is vitally important, especially for individuals who start using substances at a young age. Families managing this process alone is usually insufficient; professional support, family therapy, and rehabilitation when necessary must absolutely be considered.

Finally, another issue frequently expressed by individuals who have quit substance addiction is the feeling of "I can't be happy anymore." This emotion stems from the brain temporarily becoming desensitized to natural sources of happiness. At this point, it's important to move away from the pressure of "I must be happy" and structure life around goals. Discovering, writing down, and regularly practicing things that make the individual happy helps establish a new reward-motivation system in the brain.

In summary, addiction is not destiny. It can be overcome with willpower, support, and patience. The most important step is for the person to be honest with themselves and seek help. Every step taken toward a healthy future is very valuable in breaking the chains of addiction. It should not be forgotten that substances do not make a person happy; they only convince them that they cannot be happy without them.