Contents
Understanding
Substance abuse refers to the unhealthy use of legal or illegal drugs and alcohol which can lead to serious consequences for people of all ages and experiences. In the United States alone, substance abuse has claimed the lives of over 827,000 people since 1999 according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. However, with proper treatment and support, it’s possible to get on the path to recovery.
The Dangers of Substance Abuse
Substance abuse affects the user in a variety of ways, including their physical and mental health, social life, and emotional wellbeing. Despite its effects, many substances can be addictive, causing people to continue using despite the risks. Common risks associated with substance abuse include:
- Physical consequences – Substance abuse can impair motor coordination and decision-making, increase the risk of injury or accident, and in some cases, lead to death.
- Mental health problems -Substance abuse can cause depression, anxiety, and other mental conditions, in addition to increasing the risk of suicide.
- Social effects – Substance abuse can cause isolation from friends and family and lead to unemployment or financial issues.
- Emotional instability – Substance abuse can cause a lack of emotion or feelings of being overwhelmed.
Substance Abuse Treatment
Substance abuse treatment is a process of helping individuals through counseling, medication, and other therapies to effectively manage their substance use in the long-term. This can help those struggling with substance abuse issues to lead a healthier lifestyle, with less risk of relapse. Here are some of the commonly used treatment options:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – This type of therapy focuses on identifying and changing unhealthy behaviors.
- Motivational Interviewing – A goal-oriented intervention that helps individuals to recognize the benefits of changing their behavior related to substance use.
- Medication – Some medications are used to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with substance abuse.
- Relapse Prevention – This type of therapy helps individuals understand the risks of relapse and develop strategies to avoid relapse.
The Importance of Mental Health in Substance Abuse Recovery
Mental health plays a major role in understanding and treating substance abuse. Many people use drugs and alcohol as a way to cope with mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Therefore, when an individual is seeking treatment for substance abuse, it is important to also address mental health with therapy, medication, or a combination of the two.
Additionally, it is essential to ensure that an individual has a good support system in place prior to entering treatment. Whether it is family and friends, a support group, or a treatment center, having a safety net in place can help increase the chances of success.
Conclusion
Substance abuse is a serious issue that can have a major impact on an individual’s physical, mental and emotional health. With the right treatment and support, however, it is possible to get on the path to recovery and improved health.