In our world drugs come in all kinds of forms and with all kinds of chemical make-ups. Not only have we been plagued with illegal drugs, but nowadays, addictions are crippling our society from prescription drugs and alcohol –which has been a problem for decades. Drug addiction is characterized as a physical dependence on drugs or alcohol, where the addict feels an overwhelming need to have more and more drugs as their tolerance increases. Since drug addiction is characterized by chronic relapse, one time in addiction treatment is not enough for many addicts. Often, successful recovery requires multiple admissions to addiction treatment facilities, followed by a lifetime of work and group support to maintain sobriety. Although the repercussions of addiction are severe for the addict as well as loved ones, addiction doesn’t usually just happen with the first time drugs or alcohol are consumed. It usually takes time to garb hold of the addict and make life completely unmanageable. But once it does take hold, addiction is something that can only be addressed with the help of caring professionals in addiction treatment medicine. Addiction treatment centers are in place with a wide variety of treatment programs to ensure options for addicts of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs looking to get their lives back on track and free from the grips of addiction.