Three Stages of Drug Addiction: What You Need to Know to Help Yourself or a Loved One

For many years, drug addiction was seen merely as a bad habit or a sign of moral weakness. Today, it is recognized as a chronic illness that affects both the brain and body. Overcoming addiction through willpower alone is extremely rare.

Psychoactive substances disrupt the function of neurotransmitters—chemical messengers between nerve cells. Over time, these substances integrate into the brain’s biochemistry, altering personality and behavior. Withdrawal symptoms and physical discomfort make quitting extremely difficult without professional help.

The earlier treatment begins, the greater the chances of recovery and long-term remission.

Stages and Progression of Addiction

Drug addiction typically develops in the following stages:

1. Psychological Dependence
The individual transitions from occasional to regular use. Tolerance increases, the way the substance affects the user changes, and their social circle often shifts. Use may become cyclical (e.g., only on weekends). Psychological cravings emerge, and it becomes difficult to relax or feel joy without the drug.

2. Physical Dependence
The person develops a compulsive need for the drug. Without it, they experience irritability, depression, and anxiety. The drug is no longer used for pleasure but to avoid withdrawal symptoms—a state known as “dope sickness.”

3. Irreversible Changes
Tolerance peaks and withdrawal symptoms worsen. Severe mental and physical health issues arise. The person’s personality deteriorates, and internal organs begin to fail.

Important: The symptoms of each stage don’t disappear—they accumulate. The disease progresses.

Curiosity — The First Step

Curiosity and experimentation are often the first triggers—especially among teens and young adults.

Common reasons include:

• Wanting to fit in with peers
• Pressure from influential friends
• Trying to cope with stress or increase productivity (especially common among adults in high-pressure jobs)

The initial positive effect reinforces the behavior, creating a desire to repeat the experience. This marks the beginning of the addiction cycle.

What Is a “High”?

A high is a state of euphoria or intense pleasure caused by changes in brain chemistry. Many substances mimic or overstimulate the production of “feel-good” hormones, depleting the brain’s natural resources over time.

Highs can feel different depending on the substance:

• A surge of energy and alertness
• Detachment from reality and calmness
• Loss of control and self-awareness

As tolerance builds, larger doses are required to achieve the same effect.

Which Drugs Are Most Commonly Used First?

The most common gateway drug is marijuana. Despite its reputation for being “safe,” cannabis can significantly impact mental health:

• Memory problems
• Feelings of unreality or detachment (derealization, depersonalization)
• Cannabis-induced psychosis

Some users stop at this stage, but others move on to stronger, more dangerous drugs.

Treatment at this early stage tends to be more successful, as the person usually retains critical thinking and some level of self-control.

Learn more about drug addiction treatment at IsraRehab →

Psychological Dependence — Stage I

Key signs:

• Regular use
• Planning substance use in advance
• Withdrawing from sober friends
• Rationalizing increased use (“I’m tired,” “I need to relax,” etc.)
• Irritability and tension without the drug
• Increasing dosage due to tolerance

Withdrawal may still be mild, but willpower alone is often no longer enough. Life begins to feel dull or meaningless without the drug.

Physical Dependence — Stage II

Key signs:

• Obsessive thoughts about using
• Severe discomfort when not using
• Intense withdrawal symptoms
• Using not for pleasure but to avoid pain
• Relationship, work, or legal problems

Many users begin experimenting with stronger substances at this stage, further complicating recovery. At this point, quitting without professional help becomes nearly impossible.

Full Addiction — Stage III

This stage brings irreversible damage:

• Apathy and emotional numbness
• Frequent overdoses due to extremely high tolerance
• Personality disintegration
• Severe physical and neurological disorders

Treatment is still possible but becomes much more difficult and time-consuming—for both the individual and the medical team.

Treatment Approach

1. Detoxification

The first step is detox—cleansing the body and stabilizing vital functions:

• Restoring fluid and electrolyte balance
• Normalizing blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature
• Replenishing essential vitamins and minerals

2. Rehabilitation

A comprehensive psychological recovery process, including:

• Identifying the root causes of addiction
• Rebuilding healthy values and goals
• Developing new coping and communication skills

3. Social Reintegration

Returning to daily life with new tools and a commitment to sobriety. Support may include:

• Participation in peer support groups
• Ongoing therapy
• Help with employment and rebuilding relationships

Benefits of Treatment at IsraRehab

• Over 20 years of experience
• Treatment for all types of addiction
• Multidisciplinary team: psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists
• Ongoing support after discharge — access to remote consultations anytime

We use evidence-based methods:

• 12-step program
• Art therapy
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Psychodrama
• Transactional analysis, and more

The clinic is located away from the city, surrounded by orchards — a peaceful and healing environment. The program includes sports, trips to the sea, guided tours in Israel, pool access, and recreational activities like table tennis and billiards.

VIP accommodation is available for those who prefer privacy and personalized care. Comfortable, home-like rooms and balanced meals ensure a restful stay.

If someone you care about is struggling with addiction, don’t wait. Reach out to IsraRehab — we’ll help them return to a healthy, fulfilling life.