Main Point: The effects on a person after they become addicted to something can be small or large, depending on the length of time they are exposed to the addictive behavior or substance and what caused it. Addiction affects the addict's health, career, and relationships. I can tell you from personal experience with family members who were drug addicts, that I was traumatized growing up. (Personal story of a couple arguing here.) According to Roxanne Edwards of Medicine.net, “In terms of effects on the body, substance intoxication can cause physical effects ranging from marked drowsiness and slowed breathing… until the heartbeat accelerates. ..” Furthermore, on a psychological level they may have suicidal thoughts or euphoria depending on the addictive substance or behavior. This is why it is important for the addict to seek help because he cannot get rid of the problem on his own. In most cases, drug addicts undergo some sort of rehabilitation treatment and when they are released they are asked to attend meetings that help overcome the consequences of the addiction. Only some of these groups are places like Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous or even Celebrate Recovery. Although some places believe that these programs do not work, it is worth remembering that the success rates depend on the desire of the person using them. They have to want to stay sober or free from addiction, otherwise they'll be right back at it. Alcohol Rehab.com puts it this way: “Failure