Why Can a Chronic Drug or Alcohol Abuser Just Stop?
Another facet of drug or alcohol addiction is that the brain adapts to the presence of drugs or alcohol and makes adjustments chemically. Because of the chemical changes in the brain due to the constant use of drugs or alcohol, when a chronic drug or alcohol abuser attempts to halt his/her drug or alcohol use, the brain signals the individual that the substance is needed to function. This is a major cause of drug and alcohol cravings both physically and mentally. All drug and alcohol abusers experience drug or alcohol cravings for some period of time after ceasing drug or alcohol use. Drug and alcohol cravings will diminish over time as the individual discontinues the use of drugs and alcohol and the brain function returns to normal. This process can take several months.
