Drug Addiction

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”

Psalm 147:3

Drug addiction is often the result of unhealed wounds. A person covers these wounds, numbs themselves of the pain, and masks the real problems they face in their lives. However, as time goes on, they stray further from God’s path, and their life falls apart around them. Our faith-based drug rehab in Nashville, TN, helps clients reconnect with God and the teachings of Christ—regardless of background and beliefs.

At Spring 2 Life, we believe that people can benefit from the spiritual awakening of discovering their higher power. While our Christian faith drives our values, we are here to help people of all backgrounds and belief systems. The temptation of drug use affects everyone in our Nashville-area communities.

Drug Addiction Statistics in Nashville, TN

In Davidson County, Tennessee, the home of Nashville, overdoses are among the highest in the state. The Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) tracked 3,814 total drug overdose deaths statewide in 2021. Davidson County accounted for 529 of those deaths.

In addition, TDH found the following statistics regarding drug use in Davidson County in 2021:

• Opioid overdoses (excluding heroin) resulted in 200 inpatient stays
• Heroin overdoses accounted for 93 inpatient stays
• Cocaine overdoses lead to 183 inpatient stays
• Amphetamine overdoses (including methamphetamine) lead to 61 inpatient stays

The Metro Public Health Department of Nashville/Davidson County reports that the opioid, fentanyl, was detected in 74.2% of suspected overdose deaths in 2021. Thus, like much of the United States, the Nashville area is vulnerable to the current fentanyl crisis.

However, inpatient hospitalizations and deaths are the worst-case scenario for drug addiction. In other words, these numbers do not account for the multitude of other issues caused by addiction nor do they indicate how many people could be at risk of overdose. 

Understanding what drug addiction is as well as the signs of it can help to prevent these statistics from climbing any higher.

What is Drug Addiction?

Drug addiction, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), is “a chronic, relapsing disorder characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use despite adverse consequences.” Furthermore, NIDA explains that drug addiction changes circuits in the brain responsible for reinforcing (rewarding) behaviors, managing stress, and controlling impulses. 

In addition, a person with a drug addiction—or substance use disorder (SUD)—will have some level of dependency on drugs. That means that their body and mind will not be able to function properly without drugs. As a result, they will experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop using.

As the brain changes due to drug addiction, so does a person’s behavior and personality. Moreover, a lack of impulse control could lead to other vices and sinful behaviors. That is why our faith-based drug rehab in Nashville, TN, offers more than just addiction treatment. We’re here to show our clients the righteous path inspired by the life of Christ and the word of God.

When a person is addicted, they often struggle to notice—or deny—the issue at hand. Therefore, it is helpful to know the signs and symptoms of drug addiction to recognize the problem.

The Signs and Symptoms of Drug Addiction

As mentioned above, drug addiction alters the way a person’s brain functions. This results in behavioral signs of addiction. In addition, the person’s physical health will take a toll. To their family and loved ones, the person no longer seems to be themselves.

The following are common signs and symptoms of drug addiction:

• Needing more drugs or higher doses to get the same effects (tolerance)
• Unable to quit or cut back on drug use
• Trouble sleeping (or sleeping too much)
• Significant changes in appetite
• Spending a great deal of time obtaining drugs, using, or recovering from drug use
• Cravings for drugs throughout the day
• Lack of personal hygiene or care for one’s appearance
• Preoccupation and obsession with getting high and using
• Having financial issues due to spending money on drugs
• No longer engaging in hobbies, activities, or church events
• Arguing with family members and friends
• Engaging in dangerous, reckless, or sinful activities while under the influence
• Giving into or getting lost in dark thoughts
• Turning away from the teachings of Christ and the morals of God
• Continuing to use drugs despite the adverse effects they have on life

An additional sign of drug addiction is the presence of withdrawal symptoms when a person tries to quit. Withdrawal symptoms can begin within a few hours or days after a person stops using. Due to the unpleasant nature of these symptoms, many people give in to the temptation and start using again for relief.

Common withdrawal symptoms include the following:

• Fatigue and tiredness
• Restlessness 
• Sleeping problems
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Anxiety and depression
• Profuse sweating and clammy skin
• Difficulty thinking clearly

It’s important to find a rehab center to manage withdrawal symptoms with support. That way, clients are safe from relapse triggers and can get help for any medical concerns. They can also begin to meet others and find a fellowship of recovery and faith.

What is Faith-Based Drug Rehab in Nashville, TN Like?

Our faith-based drug rehab helps clients restore their mind, body, and spirit from the effects of drug addiction. We know that no one intends to get addicted when they first begin using. Many people have wounds they tried to heal on their own. Or, they were using drugs to escape problems in their life.

But, drug use will never lead to inner peace, health, and salvation. The person’s problems will worsen. As they lose control over their lives, the devil’s hand begins to take the wheel. 

At Spring 2 Life, we help our clients bind their inner wounds and get their lives back on track. We teach the power of prayer and empower positive behavioral changes. With the teachings of Christ, the fellowship of a recovery community, and a belief in a higher power for guidance, our clients leave with a higher sense of purpose and strength.

Lead a Purpose-Driven and Drug-Free Life Today

Everyone with a drug addiction deserves a chance to heal. Each person in recovery will face their own challenges and struggles during their journey. But they do not need to tread this path alone. Our faith-based drug rehab in Nashville, TN, can help you lead a purpose-driven—and drug-free—life in recovery.

Contact us today to begin your recovery journey.