When it comes to substance abuse, knowledge is your greatest ally. At The Drug Rehab Referral Service, we understand the importance of providing you with answers to your burning questions about different types of substance abuse. From alcohol to opioids, we’re here to offer insights and guidance for you and your loved ones.
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What Is Substance Abuse, and How Does It Differ from Addiction?
Substance abuse entails the excessive or improper use of alcohol, prescription medications, and both legal and illegal substances. It’s essential to differentiate between substance abuse and addiction:
- Substance Abuse: Many individuals with substance abuse problems can change their behavior or quit using substances. It is characterized by unhealthy patterns of use.
- Addiction: Addiction, on the other hand, is a disease that involves compulsive drug or alcohol use despite the harm it causes. It means you cannot stop using even when it jeopardizes your well-being.
What Are the Commonly Abused Drugs?
A wide array of legal and illegal drugs contains chemicals that can alter your body and mind, often providing a pleasurable “high,” stress relief, or a means to evade life’s challenges. These drugs include:
- Alcohol: Excessive drinking can lead to injuries, accidents, liver problems, and alcohol use disorders. For men, heavy drinking is defined as more than four drinks a day or over 14 drinks a week. For women, it’s more than three drinks a day or over seven drinks a week.
- Prescription and Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicine: Misusing these medications can be as dangerous and addictive as illegal drugs. This can involve taking medicine intended for someone else, consuming extra doses, or using drugs for non-medical purposes. Opioid pain relievers, stimulant medications for ADHD, anxiety, and sleep medications are commonly abused prescription drugs. High doses of cough and cold medicine containing dextromethorphan, available over-the-counter, can induce intoxication.
- Heroin: As an illegal drug, heroin delivers an initial rush of euphoria, followed by a slowdown of physical and mental functions. It often leads to strong cravings for more.
- Cocaine: Cocaine accelerates your body’s functions, making you feel energetic and euphoric initially. However, it can result in mood swings, paranoia, and irrational behavior. Prolonged use intensifies cravings for the drug.
- Marijuana: While legalized in some states for medical and recreational purposes, marijuana can induce laughter, silliness, sleepiness, and forgetfulness. Driving under the influence of marijuana is as hazardous as drunk driving. Excessive use can lead to a lack of motivation and apathy.
- Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products: Nicotine in tobacco products offers a brief rush of pleasure and energy. Nicotine addiction can develop rapidly, prompting the desire for more.
What Are the Signs of a Substance Use Problem?
Recognizing a substance use problem is crucial for timely intervention. Here are signs that you or someone you know may have an issue with substance abuse:
- Loss of interest: You lose interest in activities you once enjoyed.
- Changing social circles: Frequent changes in friends or social groups.
- Neglecting self-care: A decline in personal grooming and self-care habits.
- Isolation: Spending more time alone than usual.
- Altered eating and sleeping patterns: Either overeating or undereating and sleeping at irregular hours.
- Work and family problems: Struggles at work or with family relationships.
- Mood swings: Rapid shifts between feeling good and bad.
- Cravings: Intense desire to use the substance.
Rehabs in the USA
Understanding the various types of substance abuse is the first step toward seeking help and support. At The Drug Rehab Referral Service, we’re here to assist you on your journey to recovery, offering valuable insights and resources to guide you and your loved ones towards a healthier, substance-free life.
