Addiction especially of alcohol and drugs is seen as a psychological disorder as much as a physiological one. If not handled carefully one can relapse into the problem.

Experts say that those addicted to one substance can easily get addicted to another and then it becomes very difficult to give up. Healthcare experts look at both physical and mental aspect of the person when treating the problem. Listed below are a few pointers on how serious cases of addiction can be handled:

1. Start by controlling the consumption of the substance. This is one of first methods that doctors use, by which your body starts getting used to lower levels of the substance. One of the key reasons why addiction is a problem is because the addicts lose control of themselves. This also helps the patient gain a sense of control and there are fewer chances of relapse and withdrawal symptoms.

2. From controlled consumption, the addict needs to start thinking of abstinence. The transition is frightening and traumatic for the person; however with the right attitude and support it is achievable. It can start one day at a time.

3. Doctors then look at alternate medications that help in thwarting the effects of the addictive substance. In cases of severe addiction that results in excessively painful withdrawal symptoms, experts often give synthetic opiates instead of heroin as a daily dose to prevent craving.

4. Heavy users often suffer from severe withdrawal complications. They need medically supervised detoxification treatments. Common features include craving for the substance, anxiety, restlessness, irritability, insomnia and impaired attention. The doctors generally put the addicts in rehab centers that have support groups to help patients tide this over.